Blogs

The Isle of Man Post Office is currently celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of William Wordsworth, with the release of a delightfully nostalgic stamp collection.

Remembered as one of Britain's best-known romantic poets, this stamp issue captures both the essence and appearance of the Island at the time of his visit in 1833; presented through the use of paintings of the period which reflect his points of destination. Extracts from his work are featured on each stamp.

During the past three years, The Archibald Knox Forum has highlighted the unique work of the Manx born designer and teacher through the medium of talks, exhibitions and films; as well as encouraging enthusiasts to attend regular drop-in events and visit sites associated with Archibald Knox.

But now the Directors of The Archibald Knox Forum (a Manx charity) have laid out ambitious plans to mount the largest exhibition of the designer's work in the world, on the Isle of Man.

As we wage our own war with Covid-19, one of the final productions staged at the Centenary Centre in Peel was a unique double act reflecting in comedic fashion on one of the more distinctive aspects of World War II.

The ubiquitous Home Guard was ultimately revived in peace time by David Croft and Jimmy Perry in the successful TV series Dad's Army; which subsequently transferred to radio.

For the first time during the Coronavirus pandemic a leader of one of the Celtic nations has been tested positive. It has been confirmed that Howard Quayle Chief Minister for the Isle of Man (Manx; Mannin) has tested positive for the virus. It is reported in the Manx media that Mr Quayle has maintained "full control of government," before outlining contingency plans relating to the chain of command should any of the council of ministers fall ill. We wish Howard Quayle a speedy recovery.

In January of last year Transceltic featured an interview with The Placks. The band, based in the Highlands of Scotland, described themselves as "An original mix of melodic punk rock and folk music with a big dollop of rock & roll."

The World Bonnag Competitions, held at St James Church in Dalby, just before the spread of Covid-19 and government restrictions, still attracted a full house, although the number of entries for the competitions were down on previous years.

An evening of entertainment included Dot Tilbury and friends, compèred by Geoff Corkish, along with the presentation of cheques to last year's chosen charities (Mannin Sepsis and Pahar Trust Isle of Man) and introducing those for 2020 - Bees for Burundi and Alana's Gift, raising funds for the Special Unit at St John's School.

Easter is a Christian festival and holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. This is described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day after his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD. The Old Testament and the New Testament combine to make up the Holy Bible. The Holy Bible is defined as a book believed by Christians to contain the revelations of God and is the guiding holy text of the Christian religion.

“Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is one of the key partners in fulfilling the government’s objectives in the National Gaelic Plan, which aims to increase the number of people speaking the language and accelerate the growth of Gaelic. “ – The National

The Manx Year, albeit with some minor adjustments, was a singular opportunity to reflect on a whole host of cultural celebrations through the medium of music, song, poetry, dance and drama.

Held at the Centenary Centre in Peel, the evening's entertainment was compèred by Annie Kissack, well known to many in the Manx cultural circle and beyond, more particularly since her year as the Manx Bard.

The Gaelic League (Conradh na Gaelige) is the main voluntary community organisation that promotes the Irish language in Ireland and abroad. The League’s primary objective is the reinstatement of the Irish language as the common tongue of Ireland.  Since its founding in 1893, members have been actively promoting Irish in every aspect of life in Ireland, from legal and educational affairs to the development of media and services through Irish.  Members of the Gaelic League are in the forefront of campaigns to strengthen the rights of the Irish speaking community.