We must be prepared to take risks if we are to attract investment.

That was the message from Chief Minister Allan Bell who has returned from a visit to Dublin where he spoke with senior officials about how state funds were used there to stimulate the economy - bringing it from the brink to become the fastest growing one in Europe.

Mr Bell announced in July about plans to use government reserves to set up a £50m Enterprise Development Fund, with the aim of attracting investment and creating jobs.

He said: ‘As we look towards detailed implementation, we must ensure that we do the job properly.

‘In addition to local consultation, this means learning from others outside the island, and Ireland is an outstanding example of a small country that has rebuilt its economy using a range of initiatives.

‘The banking crisis hit Ireland particularly badly. Its economy was pretty much a basket case. Over the last five years it has gone on to become the fastest growing economy in Europe. Unemployment has fallen from 15 to 10 per cent and is dropping fast and investment is increasing all the time.’

Mr Bell said that learning from the Republic’s experience of its state-funded Enterprise Ireland initiative would help put the final structure together for the island’s Enterprise Development Fund.

He said the series of high-level meetings in Dublin allowed the Manx delegation to learn the pros and cons of operating such a fund.

Mr Bell said some of the statistics from the Irish experience might shock some politicians here. He explained: ‘The figure they have at the moment is a 30 per cent failure rate. But they believe that should be nearer 50 per cent.

‘We must be prepared to take risks if we are going to attract investment. Not every investment is going to be a huge success. But if we are not prepared to take risks and break new ground we are not going to make the breakthrough we need.’

Mr Bell said the appointment of private investment manager, free of political interference, would help to mitigates the risks.

The Chief Minister said Ireland had been through an awful lot of pain since the banking crisis brought its economy to its knees.

‘We have our own fiscal problems but I don’t believe we need to be as drastic as that,’ he said.

The £50m Enterprise Development Fund is the centrepiece of an ‘Enterprise Isle’ package of initiatives designed to boost the economy, increase inward investment and grow the working population.

Funding will be made available as loans, grants or equity investment.

Grants will be offered to help fledgling businesses. A professional fund manager will oversee loan and equity support for island-based companies entering the next phase of their growth and larger businesses with turnover of up to £2m looking to relocate here.

The Manx government could take a 20 to 25 per cent minority shareholding in these larger firms.

Mr Bell said the island had drawn on relationships built with the Irish Government through the British-Irish Council, including contacts with the Taoiseach, to set up the series of meetings.

Expressions of interest are being sought for a private investment manager.

I AM a Blue Badge holder, announcing to the world that I am a disabled driver in one way or another.

The worrying thing is, I have found, that some people set out to steal them out of your car.

Well, they certainly do across the water. The BBC Radio 4 news reported last week that thefts of Blue Badges in England doubled last year to 1,800 by people who use them for the easier and free parking conferred.

The story added that – and how they worked this out I have no idea – a Blue Badge can save the miscreants up to £6,000 a year on ordinary parking fees.

The good news is that it is also saving me up to £6,000 a year but let me set that aside for the moment. The situation has given me cause for serious and, I’m afraid, unworthy thought.

My Blue Badge is worth, on the open market, £6,000, and this means I could sell it to anyone interested for less than that, say £1,000, and then tell the authorities innocently that it had been stolen and can I have another one please. Just a thought, unworthy as it might be.

I just wish it would go away.

I THINK it was John Cleese who declared that chartered accountants are boring.

Crowe Clark Whitehill in Douglas don’t sound like that on Manx Radio.

Their commercial shows them to be bright, noisy and bouncy fellows if you care to listen to it.

There was a time when advocates and chartered accountants and other professional people would not advertise their services.

This was all in the cause of dignified professional reticence. Now it’s completely different. But this is nothing new.

Thirty years ago a firm of chartered accountants in Athol Street, Douglas, decided to ignore the reticence rule and they persuaded me, for money let me say, to write a script for them for a commercial on Manx Radio.

The message was: ‘Pannell Kerr Forster, the GOOD accountants’, the inference being that all the others were no good.

THIS week’s crossword clue has come in anonymously. It is from the Daily Mail as follows: ‘Overload harbour in Isle of Man, for instance ( 3, 5)

I LEARN that there is a classic DeLorean car in the Isle of Man Motor Museum at Jurby. John DeLorean, the American founder of the company, set up production in Northern Ireland with a large capital investment of public funding.

This was highly controversial as was Mr DeLorean himself, who always had a ready answer for questions.

I remember him fondly for his response when he was accused of being a nouveau riche. He replied: ‘It’s better to be nouveau riche than not to be riche at all.’

BBC Radio 4 has a programme called ‘More or Less’ which is about statistics and it told listeners that, statistically, the towns of Beeston in Nottinghamshire and Runcorn in Cheshire were where the most people indulge in extra marital affairs.

I’ve been to both and there’s not much else to do.

THIS was in my Funnies File for this week: On the Mannin Line on Manx Radio, when the callers were talking about homosexuality, one said: ‘What goes on between a man and his wife in their bedroom is between consulting adults.’

Some people are all talk.

MATRIMONY. ‘I had some words with my wife and she had some paragraphs with me.’ Sigmund Freud.

Crossword answer: TAX HAVEN. (We don’t say that any more).

You only have to look at the newspapers to realise that dozens of events take place in the island every week. Every one of those can create waste but with a bit of planning that waste could be avoided or reduced, says Zero Waste Mann’s Chair, Muriel Garland.

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Zero Waste Mann has produced a leaflet to help organisers plan a Zero Waste Event.

The inspiration came from Wales where a great deal of work has been done especially at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show.

Now that people are used to recycling at home and at work of course they expect to see systems for collecting cans and plastic bottles if they go to events on the island. During the motor-bike races we get lots of visitors from Europe and some from Australia where event recycling is the norm.

Whether you are organising a coffee morning, a garden party, a sports event or a pop concert the principles for creating a Zero Waste Event are the same.

Firstly you need to prevent waste happening in the first place. For example if you don’t use paper plates you won’t have to dispose of them. And washing up can be fun if everybody helps.

Secondly make sure you provide clearly labelled collection points so that people know where to put their cans and bottles. Zero Waste Mann has bought some small, wheeled bins that can be used at events.

Thirdly make sure you tell the people who are attending that this is a Zero Waste Event. It can be printed on the programme or tickets. The more people know what you are trying to do the more likely they are to help and support you.

While the event is taking place it’s important to go round and check the collection points occasionally. Research shows that people tend to throw things in a bin if there is something similar in there already. So if you retrieve any ‘contamination’ early it will ensure that people get the message.

Ideally bins should not be used for mixed waste but at small events you can collect plastic bottles and cans in the same container.

Food waste can be a problem and the ideal is to avoid it where you can. Don’t order too much and distribute it among your helpers at the end rather than throwing good food away.

When it comes to signage the more professional you can be the better. Invest in proper signs rather than sticking up bits of paper with Sellotape or BluTac.

Our aim at Zero Waste Mann is to get people to look at materials as resources rather than rubbish. So if you show that you care about how they are treated the message stands a better chance of getting through.

If you are organising a small event, you can take the materials collected to the household waste site in your area afterwards but if you are planning a larger event you may need to employ the services of a company that specialises in waste disposal.

The secret to creating a Zero Event Waste Event lies in the planning.

You can collect a copy of our Zero Waste Event guidelines from the Green Centre (opposite Iceland in Douglas) open on Saturdays and Wednesdays from 10am or download it from.zerowastemann.org

Three top class international race walkers are travelling to the island this weekend to participate in Manx Harriers 20km event over the perimeter roadway at the National Sports Centre on Sunday.

Great Britain’s world championship representative Tom Bosworth will be heading matters, along with Canadian international and last year’s winner Crichton Connelly.

Adding to the multi-national feel will be Cardiff’s Bethan Davies, who is on top form and has a 96min 39.7sec time in the bag from earlier this year.

Local competition will be from Adam Cowin, who is showing continued progress at the distance having represented England earlier this year.

The junior events will be of interest as the walkers representing Merseyside have a final race before the championships on September 19.

The event starts at 10am and those wishing to take part are asked to enter at Manx Harriers clubhouse from 9.15am.

First away will be races for younger athletes at 1km, 2km and 3km, followed by the 20km.

Anyone wishing to do a 5km or 10km will get a time at the 10km split point.

Helpers are always appreciated for lap scoring, marshalling etc. Please contact Bridget on 497594 if you can assist.

Fixtures at a glance

Saturday, September 5 - Isle of Man Athletics Association under-13 and under-15 pentathlon.

Sunday, September 13 - Western 10 road race, in addition to Julie Brew Memorial Walk. Walkers start 9.15, runners (and sub-90 minute walkers) 10.15am, from Market Place, Peel. Runners must be 16 or over, walkers 18 or over on the day. Entry fee for either event £4.

More information from Rosie on 408450.

Sunday, September 20 - Entries for the Ramsey Bakery-sponsored End to End Walk close at midnight this Sunday. Go to www.endtoendwalk.org

There’s beachcross action at Peel this evening, starting at 7pm.

Ramsey MCC’s annual MGP Week event is open to all solo riders (15 and over), and quad bikes. Sign on close to the bottom of Bridge Street, midway along the promenade, from 5.45pm for practising at 7pm and racing at 7.15.

l Isle of Man Schoolboy MCC is running a two-day stubblefield event at Orrisdale, between Kirk Michael and Ballaugh, this weekend. The venue will be signposted from the turning after Bishop’s Court. It will be open to adults (A, B and veterans), plus all youth classes on Saturday and adults (A/B) and quad bikes on Sunday, together once again with youths.Signing on both days will be from 1pm.

The two events form the final rounds of the IoM Schoolboy MCC summer series, which began in June with a single date and continued recently at West Kimmeragh with a two-day.

Rajinder Singh Chatha, of Cloaie House, Ballanard Green, Ballanard Road, Douglas, bought Orchard Lodge and Ballaughton Manor and Chestnut Lodge, Ballaughton, Braddan, for £2,225,000.

It was bought from The Major Thomas Edward Brownsdon Will Trust, by trustees, John Kirkpatrick Brownsdon, of Drummonie, Westfield Drive, Ramsey, as trustee, Marilyn Jane Young, of 6 Devonshire Crescent, Douglas, as trustee, John Kirkpatrick Brownsdon, as attorney, Christopher Edward Brownsdon, as attorney, Patricia Anne Margaret Nussey, as attorney, Marilyn Jane Young, as attorney, Margaret Myra Brownsdon, as attorney.

Other recent transactions lodged at the General Registry in Douglas are as follows:

Jonathan Brian Webb and Josephine Mary Webb sold Ard Beg, 121 Cronk Liauyr, Tromode, Douglas, for £645,000 to Fredrik Johan Ekdahl and Susan Elisabeth Ekdahl, both of 65 Cronk Coar, Tromode, Douglas.

Jonathon Paul Morley and Cathy Mary Morley sold 24 Windermere Avenue, Onchan, for £423,000, to Ian William Hamilton and Joanne Clair Hamilton, of 10 Windermere Avenue, Onchan.

Paule Leone Dalrymple sold 2 King Orry Road, Glen Vine, for £270,000, to Jeanette Margaret Keig, of 25 Maple Avenue, Onchan.

Matthew Neil Cringle and Kate Louise Cringle sold 10 Cronk Avenue, Onchan, for £245,000, to Stephen James Christian and Julie Elizabeth Gardner, of 14 Grafton Street, Douglas.

Kevin John Osmund Wood and Audra Ann Wood, sold 24 Ballachurry Close, Onchan, for £245,000, to Cherry Irene Hartopp, of 6 Snaefell Crescent, Onchan.

William Patrick Callow and Patricia Ann Callow, both of 67 Slieu Whallian Park, St John’s, sold 74 Slieu Whallian Park, St John’s, for £100,000, to Stephen Ewart Knight, of Roblea, Ballaragh Road, Laxey.

Mary Constance Kerruish, of Maughold Cottage, Claughbane Walk, Ramsey, sold a parcel of land abutting Claughbane Walk, The Crescent, Ramsey, for £5,000, to David Malcolm Maddrell, of 11 Cronk Road, Union Mills.

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We publish details of all house sales unless we receive a written request from the police or probation services.

TT ace Guy Martin has said he wants to race again as he continues to recover from the injuries suffered at last month’s Ulster Grand Prix, but won’t be rushed into making a comeback.

Posting on his official Facebook page Martin said: ‘Having a few days off work gave me time to think about what I want to do, and realise all things that have had to go on hold. I still want to race, but I’m not going to rush into deciding what or where I’m going to race.’

In the lengthy post the Lincolnshire rider thanked the medical staff that had helped him after the spill and also revealed the extent of his injuries that included five broken vertebrae: ‘I’ve had my head down for a few weeks, because I didn’t want the world knowing I spannered myself, but it turns out the world already knew. I also wanted to make sure that anything you heard was straight from the horse’s mouth.

‘I’ve had over 100 cards wishing me well. I really appreciate them, I read them all and I think they’re mega. So thanks for them.

‘I don’t remember anything about the crash after head-butting the ground, but the Dainese and AGV stuff I was racing in was brilliant.

‘The leathers were cut off me, but there weren’t many scuffs on them. I headbutted the ground at 130mph, then skidded into a dirt field and catapulted off a few things. The impact I hit the ground with was massive. I was knocked out, but it’s a credit to that helmet that I didn’t suffer any damage other than a badly bloodshot eye. There are no rubbish helmets any more really, but I wouldn’t have wanted to be wearing anything other than my AGV.

‘I’ve broken some vertebrae, but I’ve got to say the Dainese back protector did its job. It has a honeycomb aluminium core that was crushed by the impact, which is what’s supposed to happen, and it’s making funny noise if you flex it, but I crashed on Thursday night, I was operated on Friday afternoon and walking Saturday morning. I was in the shed the following Thursday. That back protector genuinely saved my life.

‘I might have come around at the trackside, because the marshals told people I was spouting the usual gibberish. I properly woke up in hospital. Then it was all the usual questions: “Where are you sore? Does this hurt?”

‘I was in Belfast Royal and I’ve never been more impressed by a hospital than I was by that place, all the staff were great. I broke five vertebrae, but they bolted six together, from T4 to T10, because two are unstable, meaning there’s a chance they could move and damage my spinal column. They had to rod my spine because I broke my sternum too. Normally the front will hold the back together or the back will hold the front, but I had broken both front and back. My sternum is cracked straight down the middle, but that’s only cartilage so they don’t do anything to try repair it. I broke five ribs and two metacarpals in right hand, too, and my hand’s been plated.

‘I’ve been back at work a while, but I’m struggling with everything. Sharon, my other-half, thought I was an idiot for trying to go back to work so soon, but I’d spent nearly a week at home, and I had to do something. Now she admits that me going to work has moved me on loads, mentally and physically. There’s no better physio than working on trucks and I know when I’m doing too much, I’m not planning to do anything that puts the recovery back.

‘The surgeon had to move my shoulder blade muscles to get the metalwork in, then fasten them all on again. That’s what’s causing the most bother, the muscle not the broken bones. A lot of my work involves having my hands above my head, in the pit working on a truck above me, but I’m alright as long as I don’t overdo it. If it gets too much Moody or Belty give me a hand and I’m getting stronger everyday.’

Police are investigating a possible act of vandalism on a commemorative stone in the Tynwald fair field.

The damage to the Millennium Stone was reported to police last week.

The stone was erected in St John’s in 1979 to mark the millennium of Tynwald parliament.

A highly successful business golf competition brought a ‘new dimension’ to the island, says Ged Power of Castletown Golf Links.

The climax to the ‘Summer Grand Slam of Golf’ sponsored by Wilkins the Jewellers resulted in a nail biting finish on a bright afternoon at Langness.

The rich clubhouse display of time pieces from Rolex, Omega, Tissot accompanied by Mont Blanc pens and gorgeous cuff links whetted the appetite of many golfers before taking on the challenge.

Winners on 33 points were the Business Doctor team followed by SMP on 32 points, Simcocks third on 27 points and Appleby fourth on 21 points.

Ged Power, spokesman for Castletown Golf Links told Business News: ‘The summer series brought a new dimension to Isle of Man golf.

‘The shortened format, introduction of an exciting game play, electronic scoring and fabulous prizes proved very popular with all who took part.

‘Golf has to modernise and link in with our lifestyles - the Summer Grand Slam did just that at Castletown Golf Links.

‘The friendly rivalry between teams also created a great atmosphere around the course. We are very pleased to hear that Wilkins the Jewellers will continue sponsorship for 2016 and I’m sure that we’ll have a fantastic time next summer’.

Neil Dunwell, of Wilkins the Jewellers said: ‘Wilkins are delighted to be sponsoring such a great Summer event at Castletown Golf Links.

‘The team at Castletown have succeeded in putting on a brilliant tournament that brings the best businesses on the Isle of Man together for networking, socialising, and of course a little bit of competition! We look forward to seeing everyone back for 2016 and welcoming some new teams’

Following a fine meal at the presentation, Jack Yardley of the winning team spoke fondly of his team’s performance and onbehalf of all competitors, he thanked Neil Dunwell and Wilkins the Jewellers for the magnificent sponsorship and prizes in an exciting summer golf series involving the business community on a classic links course.

Beach Buddies believes it is well on track in its bid to raise the £10,000 needed to buy a unique property at the Point of Ayre.

A number of benefactors have come forward with offers of donations to help acquire the Winkie Lighthouse.

Beach Buddies has had donation offers in excess of £7,000 so far, and believes it will reach the £10,000 asking price in the next few days.

The charity issued an appeal to the local community at the weekend to support a bid to purchase the lighthouse which it says would be the perfect location for Beach Buddies to have a high profile northern base, particularly in an area where marine litter is constantly a major problem.

Beach Buddies chairman Bill Dale said: ‘This is a unique property, and we thought it would be ideal if it were to have a future that would see it still acting as a guardian of the marine environment.

‘I’ll be honest, our charity simply doesn’t have the money to buy this property, so we are appealing to anyone who might want to see this lighthouse used for a truly decent and genuine purpose to consider buying it in association with our registered charity.’

It’s another record breaking year for Beach Buddies with some 300 tonnes of marine litter expected to be removed from Manx beaches by the end of 2015.

You can contact Beach Buddies by email beachbuddies@manx.net or phone on 496560.

Thursday, September 3

• Onchan Pensioners Club, Morton Hall, Castletown, coffee morning; Friday, sequence dancing, 2pm-4.30pm; Saturday, Arabian dancing, 9am-1pm; Monday, Bridge, 2pm-5pm and 7pm-11pm; Tuesday, coffee morning including raffle, 10am-noon; Wednesday, whist drive, 7pm-10pm.

• Soundcheck, Youth Arts Centre, Douglas, 6.30pm. Also Monday and Tuesday, 6pm-9pm. Monday, Castletown youth club, 6pm-9pm, and Wednesday, Ramsey youth club, 6.30pm-9.30pm.

Monday, September 7

• Vannin Bridge, Onchan pensioners hall, 2pm. Also Thursday.

• Onchan Silver Band practice, the band room, off Main Road, Onchan, beginners 6.30pm and seniors 7.30pm.

• Ramsey Gardening Club, Quayle’s hall, Ramsey, 7.30pm, £2.

Tuesday, September 8

• St John’s Art and Craft Group, Methodist hall, 9.40am. Bring your own art and craft. Call 851364.

• Manx Retirement Association Southern cofee morning at the Cherry Orchard Hotel, Port Erin, 10.30am-11.30am. Wednesday, computer discussion group at the Cat with No Tail, Douglas at 10.30am. Ted Hall presentation re the new Windows 10. Also, visit to Peel Lifeboat Station at 2pm, call 817007 to book.

• The Tuesday Group, flexible learning room to try your hand at basic crafts, have a chat, coffee and fun, Peel Clothworkers’ School, 1.15pm. Pre-school children catered for. Call 614180.

• Isle of Man Chess Club, Belsfield Hotel, Church Road Marina, Douglas, 7.30pm. Call 495097.

• Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band rehearsals, Queen Street Mission hall, 7.30pm.

• Rotary Club of Rushen and Western Mann meet Falcon’s Nest Hotel, Port Erin, 7.30pm.

• Glen Maye WI, St James’ Church hall, Dalby, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

• Mannin Quilters, Ballabeg Methodist hall, 7.30pm. Call 628921. Also Wednesday at St Columba’s Catholic Church, Port Erin, 1.30pm.

• Santon WI, The Church Centre, Church Road, Santon, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

Wednesday, September 9

• MS Society coffee morning, Harbour Lights, St Paul’s Square, Ramsey, 10.30am.

• Onchan Pensioners Club, Morton Hall, Castletown, ladies club, 2pm.

• The Friendship Club for the over 60s, Onchan Baptist Church, 2.30pm. Call 674255.

• Laxey Dog Training Club, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 7pm-10pm.

• Jurby and District WI, Jurby parish hall, 7.15pm.

• St Mark’s WI, St Mark’s School room, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

Saturday, September 5

• Battle of the Pantos with special guest Christopher Biggins, Gaiety Theatre, Douglas, 7.30pm, doors open at 7pm, £14.

Tuesday, September 8

• Jimmy Carr - funny business, at the Villa Marina, Douglas, £25.50, 8pm.

Thursday, September 3

• The 995 at Jaks, Douglas.

• Karaoke FM at Nexus Vodka Bar, Douglas.

• Skellington Z at the Creek, Peel.

• Karaoke, Guys and Dolls, Douglas.

• Ramsey Folk Club, Mitre Hotel, Ramsey, 8pm-11pm.

• Karaoke with Ray Sloane at the Saddle Inn, Douglas.

• Guitar lessons at the meeting room, Archibald Knox, Onchan, 5.45pm-6.45pm.

• Alternative Havana, Fiesta Havana, Douglas. Also, Friday - Full On Fridays.

Friday, September 4

• Grizzled Vets at the Creek, Peel.

• Karaoke FM at the Commercial, Ramsey.

• 9 Mile Smile at Jaks, Douglas.

• Make time for Music. Aaragon Mooar, Old Castletown Road, Santon. Evening with wine and canape at Dr John C Taylor’s home, and featuring a recital by Kim Brown (mezzo soprano) and Olga Eggert (piano). Tickets £40. Call Theresa on 252725.

• DJ Tim, Second Venue, 21 Victoria Street, Douglas, 8pm. Also Saturday.

• Karaoke at the Albert, Douglas, 9pm.

• Irish traditional music session at The Mitre, Ramsey, 9pm.

Saturday, September 5

• Danzig Highflyers/Skellington at the Creek, Peel.

• Karaoke FM at the Manx Arms, Onchan.

• Grass Roots at Jaks, Douglas.

• Manx music session, the Whitehouse, Peel, 10pm.

• Karaoke with Dobbo at the Decks, Liverpool Arms, Baldrine.

• Karaoke at the Central Hotel, Ramsey.

Sunday, September 6

• Ray Sloane Karaoke at Jaks, Douglas.

• Karaoke at the British, Douglas.

• Karaoke at The Crescent, Queen’s Promenade, Douglas, 8pm.

• Disco Fever at Macbeth’s, Second Venue, Douglas, 10pm-2am.

Tuesday, September 8

• Acoustic sing-around, the Manor, Willaston, 8.30pm.

• Rock Choir, Youth Arts Centre, Kensington Road, Douglas, 6pm.

Wednesday, September 9

• Karaoke at the British, Douglas.

• Irish Music session at O’Donnell’s, Douglas, 8.30pm.

Thursday, September 3

• Jump Fx - cardio classes, 9am. Also Wednesday, 6pm. Ballabeg hall. Phone Sara 432535 or email saraszestforlife@gmail.com

• Southern Swimming Pool, Castletown, Thursday, 9.15am, circuits, 7pm, aquafit; Fridays, 9.15am circuits, 6.30pm; Saturday, 10am, yoga; Monday, 9.15am, circuits, 2.10pm, aquafit, 6.30pm, circuits; Tuesday 2.30pm, aquanauts/rehab swimming, 6.30pmpm, yoga; Wednesday, 6.30pm, circuits.

• Zumba at 9.30am, total tone at 10.15am, call Jane 201811. Legs, bums and tums at 7pm, call Lisa 438150. Also Monday, high intensity circuits at 6.30am, Wednesday and Friday 6.30am, call Shelley 487270. School Drop Boot Camp at 9.30am, also Wednesday and Friday at 6.30am, call Errol on 488105. Vibro-step classes at 12.15pm and 7.15pm, also on Wednesdays and Fridays at 12.15pm and Tuesdays and Fridays at 9.15am, call Shelley 487270. Tuesday, Tae-Bo at 5.45pm, kettlebells at 6.30pm, call Kate 347160. Wednesday, kettlebell core, 6pm, also Saturdays at 9.30am, call Kelly 220220. Elite Fitness, Douglas.

• Thighs, bums and tums, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 9.30am. Also Tuesday, call 335635.

• Yoga, Iyengar (mixed) 9.30am. Tuesday, men only class, 7pm; Wednesday, mixed, 6.45pm, 10 Perwick Bay, Port St Mary. Call 452791.

• Wheelie Active Parents (mums and buggies) 9.30am, Villa Marina reception, £2. Also Walk and Talk, Peel promenade, outside Harbour Lights Cafe, 9.45am, £1.50. Friday, Walk and Talk, NSC, 9.30am; also Mondays, Poulsom Park, Castletown, 9.45am, £1.50. Racquet sports and boccia, 12.15pm, NSC, £1.75; Walk and Talk, 5.30pm, NSC, £1.50. Tuesdays,Walk and Talk, NSC, 9.30am, £1.50; Walk and Talk, Ramsey Mooragh Park, (meet Rugby Club), £1.50, 9.30am. Call Gianni 688556.

• Pilates with Lizzy Main, The Pilates Studio, The Viking Longhouse, West Quay, Peel (all classes at this venue unless stated). Thursdays 10am (chair based Pilates) and 6.15pm. Also, Fridays 9.30am and 10.45am (Pilates Gold – gentle Pilates). Saturdays 9.45am and 11am (Ante-natal Pilates). Mondays, 9.30am (also 6pm at Methodist Church Hall, Colby which is followed by Pure Stretch at 7pm). Also, Wednesdays 5.15pm and 6.30pm. Classes £9 when pre booked in blocks of six, £10 drop-in. Call 427401.

• Gentle Circuits, NSC, 11am. Also Saturday. Call 688588.

• Chair-based exercise sessions, Onchan Youth and Community Centre, 1.30pm. Also Friday, Port Erin Methodist Church hall, 2pm; Monday, Ramsey town hall, 10.30am; Tuesday, Castletown Sandfield residents’ lounge, 2pm; Wednesday, Westlands’ residents’ lounge, Peel, 10.30am. Call 642668.

• Pilates, beginners to intermediate, 38 Woodbourne Square, Douglas, 2pm, 5.30pm and 7pm. Call 491449.

• Tai Chi Chuan, Lezayre parish hall, 2pm. Call Pete Jackson 898468.

• Mini tennis coaching, year 3, 4.30pm, year 4, 5.30pm. £3. Also Tuesday, adult beginners and improvers tennis coaching, 6pm. Douglas LTC, Kensington Road. £5. Call 302642.

• Iyengar inspired yoga classes, children’s yoga from 3.30pm, yr3-yr6, 4.30-5.15 rec yr 2, teenage yoga 5.15pm, men’s yoga, 6.30pm, mixed ability hatha yoga, Monday, 9.15am, adult Iyengar inspired yoga. Wednesday, 7pm-8.30pm adult Iyengar inspired yoga.. All at Laxey Football Club. Call Jane on 863130 or janepycroft@manx.net

• Unite, mixture of yoga and Pilates, 4pm-5pm. Also, Fridays 6pm legs, bums and tums, 7pm aerial suspension fitness. Saturdays, 9.30am zumba and 10.30am aerial fitness. Mondays, 6pm zumba and 7pm aerial yoga. Tuesdays, 6pm, fitness Pilates and 7pm kettlebells. Wednesdays, 6pm, high intensity interval training and fitness yoga. Jillian’s Unique Fitness Solutions, 48 Loch Promenade, Douglas.

• Manx Fencing Club, Ashley Hill School, Onchan, 4pm. Also seniors at Ballakermeen High School, Douglas, 5pm; Tuesday, Arbory village hall, beginners at 4pm and Grade 1+, 5pm; Wednesday, Ramsey Grammar School, juniors at 5pm and seniors at 6pm, also at Ebenezer Hall, Kirk Michael, juniors at 6.30pm and adults at 7.30pm.

• Southern Gymnastics Club, Ballasalla School, 4pm. Also Tuesday, Castle Rushen High School, 5pm. Call 473741.

• Northern Gymnastics Club, Ramsey Grammar School, 5pm.

• Men on mats - core strength/Pilates class, 6pm. £8. Jillian’s Unique Fitness Solutions, 48 Loch Promenade, Douglas. Call 376574.

• Anti-gravity yoga, 6.30pm. Also, pole fitness class at Savina’s Secret Studio, Glen Falcon Road, Douglas, 7.45pm. Call 203502.

• Western Athletics Club, QEII High School, 6.30pm.

• Zumba, Carrefour Health Club, Douglas, 6.30pm. Also Monday, 8pm; Wednesday, 9.45am.

• Hot yoga 7pm. Friday: kettlebells 7am and 1.10pm, get yoga fit 10am, hot yoga 6.30pm. Saturday: hot yoga, 10am and 11.30am. Sunday: hot yoga 10am and 11.30am. Monday: kettlebells 7am and 1.10pm, get yoga fit 10am, warm Pilates 5pm, hot yoga for beginners 6.30pm. Tuesday: 7am hot yoga, 5.30pm Pilates. Wednesday: kettlebells 7am and 1.10pm, get yoga fit 10am, hardcore 6 pack abs 5.45pm, Pilates 6.30pm at The Gym, Ramsey. Call 812100.

• Cardiotone, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 7pm. Also Monday 7pm. Call 452729/863602.

• Peel Badminton Club, Corrin Hall, Peel, 7pm.

• Aquafit, Western Swimming Pool, Peel, 7pm. Also Tuesday, 1.15pm.

• Aerobics and body toning, bring your own mat, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 7pm. Also Monday, Park View hall, Kirk Michael. Call 455924.

• Zumba, The Institute, Laxey 7pm-8pm, also Tuesday 7.30pm, £5.

• Yoga, Cooil Methodist hall, 7.15pm. Call 494489.

• Fencing for all ages, Ashley Hill School, 7.30pm. Also Monday, Andreas parish hall, 4.30pm; Tuesday, Arbory parish hall, 4pm and Ebenezer Hall, Kirk Michael, 6.30pm; Wednesday, Scoill Ree Gorree sports hall, Ramsey, 5pm. Call 880863.

• Zumba, The Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 7.30pm. Call 425270. Also Tuesday.

• Fun Aquafit class at the Cherry Orchard Hotel pool. 7.45pm. Don’t forget the jaccuzi and sauna afterwards. Also Tuesday.

Friday, September 4

• Acrobatics, The Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 4.30pm.

• Manx ABC Boxing, Palace Terrace, Douglas. Juniors, 6pm. Seniors , 7pm. Also Monday and Wednesday.

• Yoga, Morton Hall, Onchan, 6.30pm. Call 494489.

• Tai chi chuan, Murray’s Road School, Douglas, 7.30pm. Call 612305.

• Indoor bowls, Legion Hall, Port St Mary, 7.30pm. No experience necessary.

Saturday, September 5

• Pregnancy yoga, All Saints’ hall, Douglas, 10am. Call 461461.

• Yoga, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 10.15am. Also Monday.

• Yoga, Arbory parish hall, 10.30am. Call 494489.

• St Mary’s football club mixed under 11s training, Pulrose football fields, 10.30am. Call 405859.

• Tae Kwondo beginners, Pinewood Complex, Pulrose, 10.45am. Also 6-7yrs, Wednesdays at 5.30pm and Monday and Wednesday, 8-13yrs at 6pm, all ages at 7.15pm. Text 432152.

• Fun and fitness, NSC, 11am-noon.

Sunday, September 6

• Reikido, The Royal British Legion, Port Erin, 11am. Also Monday 8pm. Call Nick on 398955.

• Bowling club night, Port Erin Bowling Club, Breagle Glen, 4pm.

• Yoga and Nutrition, Karma Yoga Studio, Douglas, 6pm.

Monday, September 7

• Women’s activity morning, NSC, 9.30am. Call 688556.

• Beginners yoga, 10am, Karma, 2nd Floor, 8 Victoria Street, Douglas. Also at 10am (over 60s half price, £5).

• Begin to Run ( running club for all abilities), Douglas seafront, meet Jubilee Kiosk, noon – 1pm, cost £2, call Trevor Christian for more details on 688576.

• Aquafit, NSC, 1.30pm. Also Tuesday at noon and Wednesday at 6pm. Plus deepwater aquafit on Monday at 7.15pm, and Thursday deepwater at 6pm.

• Circuit training, NSC, 6pm. Also Wednesday at 6pm.

• Exercise Boot Camp, Corrin Hall, Peel, 6.15pm. Also Wednesday, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 6pm; Thursday, Glen Vine Church hall, 9.15am.

• Bodyweight and cardiotone, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 7pm. Call 452729.

• Women’s self-defence classes, British Legion hall, Port Erin, 7.30pm.

• Kirk Michael Badminton Club, Park View hall, 8pm. Call 878536.

Tuesday, September 8

• Early Morning Boot Camp, 6.15am. Also Wednesday and Friday. Evening Boot Camp, 6pm, Tuesday and Thursday, and 9amam Saturday. Also kettlebell classes, Wednesday, 6pm, Saturday, 8am, Marown Millennium hall. Call 465335.

• Fit2Go walking sessions, car park, Station Road, St John’s, 9am. For women looking to improve their fitness. £3.

• Pilates at 38 Woodbourne Square, Douglas, 9.15am. Pilates at Trinity Church, Ramsey, 6.15pm. Also, balance and Pilates, Cooyrt Balleigh, Ramsey, 1.30pm. No floor exercise. Call 491449.

• Social-cise, social fitness sessions, NSC, 2pm. Also, Boccia, 5pm.

• Cheerleading, All Saints’ Church hall, 4.30pm. Call 254499.

• No strings badminton, for novices, beginners and getting back into badminton, NSC, 5pm.

• Adult beginners and improvers tennis coaching, Douglas LTC, Kensington Road, 6pm, £5. Call 302642.

• Pilates, Trinity Church hall, Waterloo Road, Ramsey, 6.15pm. Call 491449.

• Zumba, Fiesta Havana, Douglas, 7pm. Email sjh@manx.net

• Tai Chi Chuan, Lezayre parish community hall, 7pm.

• IoM Karate Federation, Murray’s Road School, juniors 7pm, seniors 7.30pm. Call 612305.

Wednesday, September 9

• Gentle yoga, women’s class, Gena’s Dance Academy, Peel, 9.30am. Call 456782.

• Zumba classes, beginners, antenatal and postnatal 9.45am, zumba fitness, advanced, 10.45am at Zumba Isle of Man, Silvercraigs Hotel. Call 677776.

• Gentle body toning, NSC, 11am.

• Chair-based exercises/stretch and flex, NSC, Douglas, noon. Call 688588.

• Thompson Travel Netball Club junior training, Braddan School, 6pm.

• Valkyrs Hockey Club training, QEII astro pitch, Peel. Juniors, 6pm; Seniors, 7.30pm. Call 801802.

• Iyengar inspired yoga, 6pm. Brightlife, Andreas. Call Kel on 452015.

Thursday, September 3

• The Lonan and Laxey Branch of IoM Anti-Cancer Pop-up Charity shop, Christ Church, Laxey, (by the Tram Station). Call Christine on 861724. Until Saturday.

• Age IoM - free computer training sessions, Douglas iMuseum, Kingswood Grove, 10am–12.30pm.

• Art and creative writing, The Hub, Port Erin, 10am, £3.50 per session. Also board games 2pm-3.30pm, £3.50 per session, including refreshments. Chair based exercise at the Hub 3pm, £3.50 per session. Saturday, Social Fitness 9.30am, £2 per session. Mats etc provided. Meditation, 5.30pm-6.30pm. Led by IOM Brahma Kumaris. Free sessions, donations welcome. Tuesdays Bridge, 10am-noon. £3 per session, including refreshments. Crafts, 2pm-3.30pm, £3.50 per session. Materials provided. Wednesdays 11am-12.15pm, Yoga, £3 per session. Mats etc provided. Men in Sheds – Tues/Weds/Fri, 10am, Thie Rosien, Port Erin. Hobbies and company for men.

• Summer Thursdays at the Curraghs Wildlife Park throughout the school holidays. See our website for more details.

• Isle of Man Farmers’ Market, Tynwald Mills, St John’s, 11am-3pm.

• Manxaid hosts a Mind Body and Spirit Evening, Douglas Golf Club, Meadows Pavilion, 7pm, mediums Cathy Tsitsos and Sally Adams plus themed market. Tickets £7.50, call 331367 to reserve.

• Manx Gaelic class, intermediate-advanced with James Harrison, 7.30pm at Arbory Commissioners’ hall. Friday, intermediate-advanced with Adrian Cain, noon at the Manx Museum, Douglas. Saturday, intermediate 10.30am at House of Manannan in Peel; intermediate-advanced with James Harrison 10.30am at the Manx Museum, Douglas. Tuesday, intermediate with Adrian Cain, noon at St Matthew’s Church in Douglas, advanced 1pm at the Rovers pub in Douglas; beginners 7.30pm at Patchwork Cafe in Port St Mary. Call 451098. Arbory Commissioners’ hall with Cathy Clucas, 7.30pm. Call 838527. St John’s House with James O’Meara, 7.30pm. Call 843436.

• Gospel message in Ballaugh village hall, 7.30pm.

• Quiz Night at the Railway, Douglas, 8.30pm. Call 670773.

• Bingo Quiz, Manor Hotel, Willaston, 9pm.

Friday, September 4

• Coffee and chat, Onchan Methodist Church lounge, opposite commissioners’ office, 10.30am-noon.

• Revive Fridays, 5.30pm-6.30pm. Enjoy the company and a faith tea, Trinity Church hall. Call 621004.

• Meditation at The Refinery, Duke Street, Douglas, 7pm. Call 467818.

Saturday, September 5

• Douglas Choral Union presents Jesus Christ Superstar – workshops with the director Tony Finnegan, St Matthew’s Church, North Quay, Douglas. For more information, please go to our website: www.douglaschoralunion.im Also Sunday.

• Manx Wildlife Trust: Invasive species hunt on Ramsey Harbour, 10am. Discussions on our findings over lunch.

• Theatre Tours, Gaiety Theatre, Douglas, 10am. Tickets for adults £7.50, children £4, family £20. Call 600555.

• The Manx Aviation and Military Museum, Ronaldsway. Includes the Major Cain VC exhibition. Open 10am-4.30pm daily. New memorial garden. Free admission. Donations welcome.

• Laxey Woollen Mills, Glen Road, 10am-5pm. Also open weekdays.

• Green Centre, opposite Iceland, Chester Street complex, Douglas. Information about recycling, energy, insulation and environmental matters. Zero Waste Mann, Isle of Man Friends of the Earth and Manx Energy Advice Centre. Open from 10am.

• Isle of Man Farmers’ Market at Storm Art Cafe, Ramsey, 10am-1pm.

• Isle of Man Farmers’ Market at Villa Marina, Douglas, 10am-2pm.

• Car Boot Sale, Mill Road, Peel. (by Moore’s Kipper House) 10.30am-2.30pm. Cars £5, vans £7. Admission Free. Proceeds to charities – contact 801200.

• Great Laxey Mine Railway, 11am-4.30pm.

• Coffee and chat, St Mary’s on the Harbour, Castletown, 11am.

• Milntown House Tours every Saturday and Wednesday, 2.30pm. £7. Call 812321.

• St John’s Produce Show at the Methodist Hall starting at 3pm with new categories included. Raising money for Motor Neurone Disease Association (Isle of Man) and Tabitha’s Trust (Child Bereavement Support Charity Isle of Man). Calll John Kneen on 801467.

Sunday, September 6

• Open Day at the Youth Arts Centre, Douglas, 11am – 4pm.

• NGS Garden Opening at Red Roofs, Fistard, 11am-5pm.

• Car boot sale at Onchan Community Centre, noon, sellers £6, admission 50p.

• Collectors Fair in Morton Hall, Castletown, (opp. Rail Station), 2-4pm, wide variety of antique to modern items. Entry 50p for Anti-Cancer.

• Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band rehearsals, Queen Street Mission hall, 7pm.

• Meditation and chat at Pure Inspiration, Ramsey, 7.15pm. Call Gary on 817735.

Monday, September 7

• Age Isle of Man - free computer sessions for people aged over 50 at House of Manannan, Peel. Lift available and coffee shop, 10am–12.30pm and 1.30pm–4.30pm.

• Afternoon tea dance, Manx Legion Club, Douglas, 2pm-4pm.

• Free life-changing stress / spine / health talks, Align4Life in Lake Road, Douglas, 6.45pm, 629444.

• Ramsey Music Society AGM, St Paul’s lounge, St Paul’s Church, Ramsey, at 7.30pm.

Tuesday, September 8

• Computers for Beginners, Onchan Library, 10am-noon. Call 621228.

• Manx Cancer Help drop-in day, Lisa Lowe Centre, The Old Schoolhouse, Cronkbourne, 11am-4pm.

• Lunch Club, Salvation Army Citadel, Lord Street, Douglas, 11.30am. Call 627742.

Wednesday, September 9

• Computer training sessions. Leonard Cheshire Disability, Main Road, Onchan, 11am-3pm. Call 679030.

• Call in for coffee at St Peter’s Church, Onchan, 11am and 1pm.

• Ramsey and District Probus Club lunch, Ramsey Golf Club, 12.30pm. A talk by Keith Kerruish on ‘The Star of India’. Call John Christal, 812565.

• Bereavement support group, friendly get together for anyone feeling isolated or lonely after a bereavement, however or whenever it occurred, tea, coffee and a chat, Scholl Centre, Hospice Isle of Man, 5pm-7pm. Call 647443.

• Samba percussion workshop, no experience necessary, Onchan Silver bandroom, off Onchan Commissioners’ car park, 7pm. Cost £5, email sambamann@manx.net

• Bingo Quiz, Archibald Knox Onchan.

Thursday, September 3

• Tea dance, South Douglas Old Friends’ Association, Finch Road, Douglas, 2pm.

• Dance classes for children, Centenary Centre, Peel, 4pm. Call 450688.

• Modern line dance classes for all levels at the Legion hall, Onchan. Also Monday and Wednesday. Call 670308.

• Scottish country dancing, St Olave’s Church hall in Cumberland Road, Ramsey, at 7.30pm. Call 817610, 813074 or 628521.

• Fitsteps at Onchan Community hall, 7.30pm. Call 456056.

• Strictly Come Dancing for beginners, Royal British Legion hall, Port Erin, 8pm. £3.50 per person.

• Irish set dancing above Macbeth’s, Victoria Street, Douglas, 8pm. Call 457268.

Friday, September 4

• 5pm-5.45pm under 6 years ballroom; 5.45pm-6.30pm 6-9 years ballroom; 6.30pm-7.15pm 9-12 years ballroom; 7.15pm-8pm 12+ years ballroom, St Matthew’s Church hall, Douglas. Also Tuesday, 4pm-4.45pm under 8 years ballroom; 4.45pm-5.30pm Dynamites freestyle; 5.30pm-6.15pm 8-12 years ballroom; 6.15pm-7pm Energisers freestyle; 7pm-7.45pm 12+ years ballroom; 7.45pm-8.30pm Explosions freestyle. Call 474063.

• Modern Dance, The Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 5.45pm. Also Thursday at 4.30pm. Tap jnr, 6.45pm. Also tap adv at 7.30pm. Also Beginners tap, Tuesday at 4.30pm.

• Argentinian Tango beginners class, St Paul’s hall, Ramsey, 7pm. Call 880650.

• Line Dancing, Ebenezer Hall, Kirk Michael, 7pm. Beginners welcome, adults £3.50, children £1.50. Call 878687.

Saturday, September 5

• Dance time for children, Port Erin Methodist hall, 9.30am. £2.50 per half hour. Call 835696.

• Ballroom dancing for children of all ages, Royal British Legion hall, Port Erin, 10am.

• Theatrix Theatre Company Musical Theatre, Douglas, Saturday noon-2.30pm for ages 8-12. Also Saturday, babies Irish/mod, 9am. prep ballet/tap, 10am, babies ballet/tap, 11am. Monday, senior ballet, 4pm; senior tap, 5pm; senior jazz, 5.45pm; adult Irish, 6.30pm. Tuesday community ballet/tap, 4pm; beginners Irish, 4.45pm; junior Irish, 5.30pm; adult tap, 6.15pm. Wednesday, grade 2 ballet/tap, 4pm; novice Irish, 5.30pm; adult ballet, 6.15pm.

• Irish dance mixed, 3pm. Also prim/int on Monday at 4.30pm and Tuesday at 6.15pm. Beginners on Tuesday at 5.15pm. Stage snr 4pm. Also stage int at 5pm, The Dance Factory, Onchan Park.

• Sequence dancing, Onchan Pensioners’ hall (across from library), 8pm. Call 829669.

• Social sequence dancing, Pulrose Methodist Church hall, Douglas, 8pm. Also Monday, Wednesday and Sunday. Call 842878.

Sunday, September 6

• Perree Bane Manx folk dancing, Ballasalla village hall, 7pm.

Monday, September 7

• Ballet, Viking Works, Riverside, Peel, 5.45pm. Also Thursday at 4.30pm.

• Country dancing, Willaston hall, 7pm-9pm. Call 628521.

• Ceroc dance night, Masonic hall, Douglas, 7.30pm-10.30pm.

• Line dancing, Port Erin Methodist Church hall, 8.15pm. Call 436219.

Tuesday, September 8

• Oriental dance exercise, Gena’s Dance Academy, Peel, 10am. Also Wednesdays, The Gym, Ramsey. Call 300020.

• Line dancing for beginners, The South Douglas Old Friends’ Association, Finch Road, Douglas, 7.30pm-8.30pm.

• Linedancercise at St John’s football clubhouse, 7.30pm-9pm, call 467285.

• Sequence dancing with Port Erin Dancing Club, Port Erin Methodist Church hall, 8pm.

Wednesday, September 9

• Tea dance at St John’s Methodist hall, live music with Eric and Jimmy, 2pm. Call 842548.

• Ballroom dancing for children, Centenary Centre, Peel, 4pm. Call 450688.

• Ballet, The Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 4.30pm.

• Latin line dancing, Royal British Legion hall, Port Erin, 7.30pm. Call 835098.

• Ballroom dancing, Villa Marina, Douglas, 7.30pm. Call 623414.

• Rhythmic dance, St Ninian’s dance studio, Douglas, 8pm.

Thursday, September 3

• Noah’s Ark Tots Group, Church on The Rock, behind Ramsey bus station, 9.30am. Call 431034.

• Gym time active play for pre-school children, Manx Gymnastics Centre, Douglas, 9.30am. Call 625636. Also Friday and Wednesday.

• Happy Tots, main hall, Willaston School, 9.45am, £1 per family including refreshments. Call 621577.

• Storytime for pre-schoolers, Henry Bloom Noble Library, Douglas, 10am. Call 696461.

• Family Library: Drop-in craft, 1.30pm-5pm£1. Friday, drop-in craft, £1, also, storybox followed by craft, 10.30am, £1. Saturday, sticky fingers, 10.30-noon.

• Toddler Tunes, Community Room, Michael School, 2pm. Call 878090.

• Good News Club for primary school children, Living Hope Community Church, Bayview Road, Port St Mary, 6pm. Email weirfamily55@hotmail.co.uk

• St John Ambulance Cadets (10+), 6.30pm-8pm, Douglas headquarters. Badgers (5+), 5.30pm-6.30pm, Age Concern in Peel. Adults meetings, Thursday, Monday and Tuesday, Douglas headquarters. Friday, Ramsey, St Olave’s Church hall. For all other times and venues call 674387.

• Army Cadets, Scout hall, Peel, 7pm. Also Tuesday.

Friday, September 4

• Tiddlers, parents and tots, Elim Church, Onchan, 10am. Call 434933.

• Parents and tots, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 10am.

• Mums and Tots, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 10am-noon. Call 479839.

• Onchan carers and tots, parish hall, Onchan, 1.15pm. Call 625328.

Saturday, September 5

• Young Bowlers Club. Tuition and tips, Surestrike Bowling Alley, Ramsey, 11am-noon.

Monday, September 7

• Parents and tots, Dhoon Church hall, 9.30am. Call 426395.

• Daniel’s Den, Methodist Church, Arbory Street, Castletown, 10am. Admission £1. Call 822374.

• Breastfeeding Buddies drop-in clinic, Village Walk Health Centre, Onchan, 10.30am. Call 656030.

• Tots play at Northern Lights Community Centre, Ramsey, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Also tots craft and play on Wednesday, £1.

• Michael Miniatures’ parents and tots, Ebenezer Hall, Kirk Michael, 2pm. £1.50 per family. Call 491592.

• Do Drop Inn Drama Club, children aged 10+, St Paul’s hall, Ramsey, 7pm.

Tuesday, September 8

• Parents and tots, Auldyn Infants School community room, Ramsey, 9.15am-11.15am.

• Toddle Inn, mums and tots group, Port St Mary Living Hope Community Church, 9.30am. Call 835091.

• Tiddlers Group for parents, grandparents or carers, St Olave’s Church hall, Ramsey, 9.45am-11.30am, £1.50.

• Super Saints, All Saints’ Church vestry, Douglas, 10am-11.15am. Call 427185.

• Foxdale mums and tots, community hall, Foxdale School, 2pm. Call 420234.

• Abbey Acorns, ages 4+ at the Abbey Church, Ballasalla, 3.30pm.

• Peel Footlights Youth Theatre, children aged eight-16, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 4pm. Also Thursday. Call 843819.

• 2nd Onchan Beavers, Scout Headquarters, Onchan, 5pm.

Wednesday, September 9

• Parents and tots, Salvation Army Citadel, Lord Street, Douglas, 9.30am. Call 627742.

• Mini Club for parents or carers and their babies, toddlers and pre-school children at Anagh Coar School, Douglas, 9.30am or Braddan Church hall, 2pm. Call 675091.

• Twins/Multiple Births Club, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 10am-11.30am. Call 458202.

• Mums and tots, Marown hall, Peel Road, Crosby, 10.15am. £1.50 per family.

• Action, Songs and Rhymes, from birth onwards, 1.30pm-2.30pm, Laxey Working Men’s Institute. Call Jo, 479452.

• Parent and toddler group, Castletown Youth Centre, Arbory Street, 2pm.

• Mums and tots sessions for babies and pre-schoolers at Foxdale School, 2pm-3.15pm. £1.50 per family. Call Emma 801946.

• The Energy Youth Group, Colby Methodist Chapel, 7pm-8.30pm. Call Jane 492010.

• Snaefell Cubs, Scout Headquarters, Onchan, 7pm.

Palace Cinema

• The Transporter Refueled, (15). Daily at 4.30pm and 8pm.

• Straight Outta Compton, (15). Nightly at 7.30pm.

• Inside Out, 2D, (U). Daily at 2pm.

• Pixels, 2D, (12A). Daily at 2.30pm.

Broadway Cinema

• Sleeping Beauty. Saturday and Sunday at 10.30am.

• Minions 2D, (U). Friday-Wednesday at 12.15pm. 3D, Friday-Wednesday at 2.30pm.

• Paper Towns, (12A). Daily at 5pm. Wednesday 2.30pm and 5pm.

• Hitman: Agent 47. Daily at 7.30pm.

Centenary Centre

• Kingsman: The Secret Service, (15). 7.45pm. Doors open at 7pm.

• Ulster’s TT Heroes Exhibition, House of Manannan, 10am-5pm. Until Sunday.

• ‘The Life of a community, then and now’. A photo exhibition on life in Dalby, open daily throughout the summer at St James Dalby. Self- service refreshments available. For more information please see: stjamesdalby.org

• Jelena Benson, Abstracts and Portraits, The Isle Gallery. Until Sunday.

•‘Racing Pioneers’ an exhibition featuring tales of the early days of the TT and Manx Grand Prix in old photographs and contemporary newspaper extracts showing at the Ramsey Heritage Centre, Albert Street, Ramsey (next door to the tram station) until September 14. Centre is open daily except Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm.

• ‘Element’ a photographic exhibition by Henry Uniacke, Sayle Gallery. Until September 27.

Enterprising Julie Gartland is looking forward to launching her own business after buying a village building and restoring the community’s private pre-school facility.

Mrs Gartland, 48, has had five children of her own and already successfully runs a playgroup in Douglas.

Now she has bought the former Noah’s Ark Nursery in Laxey which has been closed for two years.

The Shore Road building, which used to be owned by the Salvation Army, is planned to re-open nextMonday (September 7).

As well as running a business Mrs Gartland hopes she is also helping villagers who now have a pre-school nursery again.

Her niece Michelle Cannell will have returned fresh from her honeymoon to take over as manager of the nursery.

And Cathy Hinks is the deputy manager of the nursery which is called Trinity Laxey Nursery.

Mrs Gartland has worked with youngsters for years. She has been at the helm of Trinity Playgroup, in Trinity Church Hall on Buck’s Road, Douglas in 2004.

The nursery, rented from the church, caters for two to five years, is thriving and currently has 32 youngsters attending.

She explained that she has harboured a dream of owning her own business and two years ago she put a bid in when the former Noah’s Ark nursery came on the market,but it was unsuccessful. She said: ‘But whoever won the bid, that fell through, so it came back on to the market in about August 2014. So I submitted my bid to buy the building from the Salvation Army and this time it was accepted.’;

Mrs Gartland has since gained full planning approval and has undergone all the legal and regulatory work with the Department of Health and Social Care that has to be done, including police checks.

She told Business News she was ‘very excited’ about finally owning her own business.

She said while she would continue her work at the Douglas playgroup she will keep a close eye on day to day activities of the Laxey nursery.

It will be open 8.30am to 4pm with term time provision for two to five year olds.

Mrs Gartland said: ‘There is no provision currently available in Laxey so I think it’s good for the community. It’s something that has been missing down there.

‘They have had to travel to Onchan or Douglas, or wherever.

‘It will be great for the pre-school children to form some friendhips before they are passed on to Laxey School.

‘I’ve been getting some good feedback on this.’

An openday was held earlier in the summer and the new nursery has been featured in social media.

She said it had been a real shock to the village when the original Noah’s Ark nursery closed.

Now she says: ‘I hope we will be welcomed in, you like to be part of the community when you open a new business.’

Manxwoman Mrs Gartland who was educated at Ballakermeen High School, is married to postman and well-known football referee John Gartland aged 52. Coincidentally he also coaches the Laxey under-12 football team.

The eldest of Mrs Gartland’s five children, Alexandra, 28, is a nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital for sick children in London.

The others are Elisha, 18, Juliana, 17, Arianna, 14, and Jonny 11.

Mrs Gartland is herself a qualified nursery nurse.

She said that she learned about keeping accounts and bookeeping when she worked for her father Peter Gilbertson when he ran a printing company called Nelson Press.