We were sorry to learn that Walter Clarke, from Ramsey was unwell, so we trust that he will soon be fully restored and we hope to arrange a new date - our apologies to his many fans that had journied from the distant north. However, sorrow was soon dispelled. Peel star photographer and world traveller kindly stepped in with a magnificent slide show of a holiday he had taken, several years ago, to Havana, in Cuba, the largest of the Caribbean islands.

Photo copyright John Hall

Because of the on-going American boycott, the flight was circuitous, via Gander, in Canada to re-fuel then to Costa Rica for more fuel and finally to Cuba. The changes in temperature were very noticeable from sub-zero to tropical, all in a few hours.

Cuba is 700 miles long, equivalent distance John reminded us, as from Lands End to John O' Groats. Apart from the much greater size, it was also obvious that the temperature was much higher than here. It was interesting to see the care with which houses and hotels had been designed to encourage the natural circulation of air, with masses of open windows, balconies and open courtyards rising up high within even the largest buildings. This contrasted with many of our buildings where the principle effort lies in keeping the weather out!

It was sad to see the effects of the withdrawal of all contacts by America. The loss of their tourism and trade was plainly devastating, leading to great poverty. Even electricity was only available in a sporadic fashion as was fuel, water and all the other services regarded as essential in our own homeland. Regardless of the politics, the audience shared John's concern for this struggling community.

Dr Malcolm and Hazel Hannan showed particular interest as they had been there for a medical conference and described how nothing was wasted with even surgical needles being sterilised and re-used and operations being performed by skilled staff with the most basic equipment.

We admired the wonderfully elegant 18 th and 19 th century buildings but regretted their extreme dilapidation. It is only fair to report that several of the audience remarked that our own built heritage has been much neglected and only in the most recent times are we seeing a turn round. In this respect, Douglas and the Isle of Man can now breathe a sigh of relief at the saving and restoration of the Villa Marina. Would that this were true of the many fine, historic buildings that have been neglected and lost.

At least, in Peel, with the help of our own local restoration company and the increasing number of caring, individual owners, Peel is starting to hold its head high in this respect. We might have lost Corlett's warehouse but we can rejoice in buildings such as the Christian Street Methodist Church that is being saved. Further delights include the Centenary Centre in Atholl Street. Smaller examples of sympathetic restoration are to be found all over the old town.

Old Havana has been designated a World Heritage Site and it is starting to follow Peel's example. Perhaps we should be twinned! We could exchange kippers for the magnificent cigars we saw being hand rolled.

John introduced Tricia Craig who had just returned from Havana. She showed us her slides and it was very interesting to compare them with the earlier ones. Still, very few cars and most of them are 50 or more years old. Even brakes were deemed a luxury and that included taxis! No Health and Safety there. However, despite the poverty, people appeared happier and more content than often seen here. The healthy diet with no junk food plays a part as, no doubt, does the climate.

The paradox seems to be that the less you have the less you have to worry about. Could it be that less really can mean more? It certainly is much kinder to the planet.

This was an unusual evening for us and provoked a lot of thought and discussion. I hope that we will be able to continue our awakened interest in our fellow islanders.

The vote of thanks was followed by much applause and appreciation.

Our next meeting will be on Monday, 5 th April in the Creg Malin when Stewart Bennett will give us an illustrated talk entitled, From the Rooftops. The following meeting on the 4 th May will be a special, conducted tour up Michael Street. Meet in the Market Place at 7.30pm and be prepared for eye-opening experiences!

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The 15th Annual General Meeting of Peel Heritage Trust opened with a sense of expectation as a special announcement was to be made. The presence of the staff photographer from Isle of Man Newspapers added to the sense of expectation.

The packed Philip Christian Centre did not have long to wait as we staged the official handing over ceremony of the Peel City Guardian newspaper by the former owner, Ian Faulds to Peel Heritage Trust. Photographs were taken to record this important piece of Manx history, in the making, with this historic, independent title being handed on to the trust for safe keeping. The first edition will hit the streets at Easter and will appear quarterly, initially.

It says a great deal for the enthusiasm of the previous staff that so many of them have joined the team under editor, Dr Malcolm Hannan and chairman, Vic Bates. I will write about the re-born paper as it rises from the ashes, shaking hot embers off its feathers, nearer the time. E-mail peelcityguardian@manx.net

Following this exciting prelude, we launched into the meeting proper with welcome, the readings of last year's minutes and matters arising.

I opened my chairman's report with a look at my report for 1998. Sam Knight had visited the QE2 School sowing heritage seeds and showing them the mapping work we were doing with Oxford Brookes University.

Our investigation of Peel's tunnels was in a state of limbo, I pleaded for more help with our rapidly expanding work and we were still hoping to save the Brickworks Office.

Unfortunately, we no longer have members of QE2 6 th Form serving on the committee - the so-called National Curriculum and the plethora of exams rather than teaching and learning has squeezed this and so much else. However, our links with the younger children at the Clothworkers' School remains strong, thanks in a large part to the work of Pam Quine and Dorothy Bridson.

Our work with the Oxford Brooke's University has just ceased with the demise of their cartography department. However we may well seek links with other departments.

Peel's secret tunnels still beckon - are you interested, do you know of how we can get access to ground radar? Please give me a ring on 842541 if you can help.

The Brickworks Office has been saved, with the support of our good friends, the Manx Transport Museum Group, with whom we work closely. This is now a very popular museum, open at weekends from Easter to October.

Chris Littler set up our website, www.peelheritagetrust.net , as promised last year. Its success encouraged the commissioners to commission him to produce a site for them and this is very popular. Our site has frequent updates and has a number of useful links, so do look in from time to time.

I went on to review the year's activities and thanked our incredibly enthusiastic committee and members who regularly pack meetings to overflowing. Write-ups appear in the press and on our website so members world-wide can keep in touch.

Perhaps I had better remind people that Helen, Tom and I have swopped houses with our daughter Sue, husband Dave, Charlie and Amy. We can now be found at 3, The Grove, Peel. Phone and e-mail are unchanged. Now that I am living in one of Jonathan Irving's developments, I can now report from 1 st hand experience! As always, do get in touch with heritage matters, especially if a tunnel or secret cellar opens up beneath your house!

Harrison Quirk, our wondrous treasurer and Brian Riddle were re-elected onto the committee, so we launch into the New Year with much enthusiasm and vigour.

The Open Forum session produced some more excellent ideas that are being actioned.

Following refreshments, Jennifer Leece, retired reporter for Isle of Man Newspapers, then gave us a talk on the history of the Manx press. This was thoroughly researched and presented in such a delightful, absorbing manner. She held us all in her hand - what a gift! We are so privileged that she has re-joined what is now, our Peel City Guardian. Her friends and fans, Island-wide and beyond look forward to her articles. I do hope that we will be able to publish her talk - it deserves a much wider audience.

Sam gave Jennifer a vote of thanks, supported by much applause.

All too soon it was time to go home, but that's Peel Heritage Trust!

Peel's Secret Gardens will be on the 17 th and 18 th July. If you would like to take part, please ring Sam on 842448. We would hate to miss you out.

Our next meeting is on the 23 rd March in the Creg Malin. Due to indisposition, Walter Clarke's talk is postponed. Our star for the evening is to be world explorer and photographer, John Hall. Come early to secure a seat and bring your sunglasses! Everyone, as always, is most welcome.

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We like to use the Philip Christian Centre, from time to time. It is one of Peel's few registered buildings and we like to help to keep it alive and well. However, I was anxious as to whether or not we would be able to seat the audience so that they could all see the screen, once the inimitable Dougie Allan was unleashed. As I feared, we could scarcely squeeze everyone in. Indeed, Sam Knight, our secretary, put on his little boy look and sat cross-legged on the floor at the front.

Dougie combines a number of talents, including forestry, wild-life, photography, post-card collecting, love of the Island, particularly Peel, and a talent for sharing these interests with others.

His show centred on copies of old postcards and paintings that have been skilfully copied onto slides. They are centred on three private collections - one from a local Commissioner and two from relatives. There is always room for more and can, of course, be copied and returned.

In his opening remarks, Dougie encouraged people to comment as went along, which many did, adding to our store of knowledge. He also pointed out that digital photography has some advantages but the big loss is that images can readily be deleted from the camera or from the computer, whereas prints get put into albums or drawers and are available as invaluable source material for later generations. With this in mind, please keep taking the old style pictures, as well. Even family photographs contain information about people, places fashions and, often, transport. A pencil note of place, date and people on the back adds to the value. Pencil is better than ink that can leach into the paper.

The quality of the photographs on the cards was remarked upon. Massive enlargement on the screen exposed masses of fine detail. This is of great credit to the photographers and printers. The oldest cards were more than a century old and relied upon craft skills that would be hard to replicate, today. One fine view of Peel dated back to 1830. Of course there have been many changes, since then, but it is heartening to see that much of old Peel remains with its street plan unchanged.

As always, the destruction of landmark buildings such as St Peter's Church in Market Square and most recently, Corlett's Warehouse, beside the Creek Inn were mourned. The loss of the rather insecure St German's spire, in a storm was seen as sad, as was the occasional loss of a building by fire. However, no sympathy was expressed for those who deliberately destroy our buildings by neglect and eventual decay and loss. Should we overcome our natural reserve and seek improvement and repair notices on old buildings of note?

On the plus side, many buildings such as the Christian Street Methodist Church are coming back to life. The growing list of buildings coming back to life puts our own local developer, on a par with the Resurrectionists! However, unlike the Victorian grave robbers, following dissection, Jonathan Irving breathes fresh life back into them.

A fine example of local people working together to achieve the brilliant re-use of fine old buildings can be seen, in Atholl Street, where the Centenary Centre now glistens as a centre for the arts and general public use.

Equally, an increasing number of people are carefully restoring their own properties with the free advice and financial assistance available from the Conservation Section of D.O.L.G.E. Who knows, we might even be able to persuade the new bishop, a leading figure in the conservation and care of churches, to breathe life into the old cathedral on St Patrick's Isle. Its similarity to the church on Iona is no accident. This was restored and is now a centre of pilgrimage.

Sam sprang to his feet to thank Dougie for yet another wonderful evening. The hundred or so in the audience clapped and clapped before attacking the reviving tea and biscuits from Pam Quine and her splendid helpers. Everyone mingled - old friendships were renewed and new ones were made. It was lovely seeing many new faces and fresh members joining.

Our next meeting is the A.G.M. on Tuesday, 24th February at 7.30pm, also in the Philip Christian Centre. As always, the brief, formal meeting will be followed by a members' open forum. Remember to renew your subs, if necessary, by the start of the meeting, to entitle you to vote. Harrison Quirk, our trusty treasurer will be poised, as always.

Our star guest, for the last part of the evening is Jennifer Leece. She will be speaking on the history of Manx newspapers. She is, of course, our notable local journalist and will attract a huge following of her own. We'll get you in, somehow, to share in another great evening in Peel.

At 11 o clock on the 11 th November, members of Peel Heritage Trust joined, as usual, with members of the Legion and other bodies, on Peel Hill for a brief service of remembrance. A maroon was fired to mark the beginning and end of the 2-minute silence, wreaths were laid at the memorial, prayers were led by Canon Kelly and the last post was sounded on the bugle. This brief ceremony is all the more moving for its simplicity, more akin to wartime tragedies we were commemorating.

The ceremony was very well attended, this year, and we were relieved that the Commissioners had managed to fit a hand- rail, in time. As the years pass, this has become more and more necessary.

Despite the deterioration in the weather, the Creg Malin Hotel was packed, in the evening, to hear Andrew Johnson, Field Archaeologist, Manx National Heritage, give an illustrated talk entitled, 'Ruins and Rubbish'. All eighty-five chairs were filled and some people were perched around the room. This was wonderful, on a wild, wet night on the seafront. Equally pleasing was the wide age range of members present. Andrew was moved to ask, at the start, where they were all coming from? He was being modest - his fame had gone before him!

Following my brief introduction, Andrew launched into a presentation on Rushen Abbey. He had a fascinating record of the condition of the site when M.N.H. acquired it right through to the fascinating site that we now see. It begged the question, of course, as to why this important monastic site, burial ground of Manx kings, had been allowed to fall into such a state of desolation and decay. Indeed, for part of its recent history, people were literally dancing on the graves!

Vegetation cleared, foundations traced by ground radar and exposed by careful digging has shown what a large and complex monastic foundation this once was. Gardens and fishpond have been restored and digs continue, each year. This is a 'must' to visit and to marvel at. Well-done Manx National Heritage!

Andrew then showed us a similar voyage of discovery with the old House of Keys in Castletown. We were fascinated to see the recorded unpicking of the building and its careful restoration. Of equal interest was the history of re-cycling of the building with its use by the ill-fated Dumbell's Bank and, more recently, the National Provincial Bank

We then moved from 'ruins' to 'rubbish' - Billown Quarry, to be precise. The work of M.N.H. with Lancaster and Bournemouth Universities was shown to be highly productive on this site with Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age remains - one of the richest sites on the Island.

The late Harry Cowley, founder of the chemists in Peel, discovered many prehistoric sites around Peel, including a round house 3 500 years old. Will the houses presently being built around Peel be eagerly examined in thousands of years' time?

Prehistoric to Victorian mines at Langness appeared on the screen, all easily visible, although care is needed in descending Bradda Head. The recent fire on the back of this land has exposed some more tantalising archaeological possibilities. No need to be bored on this Island!

Artefacts such as Manx Crosses were illustrated, including the recent improvements to the display in Onchan, (yes, Peter Kelly is not the only remaining historic item in that long-suffering parish!) The Icelandic woman riding a horse side- saddle on a cross at Andreas was also of great interest.

Viking homes, sheepfolds in the mountains, tholtans, horse mills, field marks and the extension of cultivation were all dealt with.

One thing many of us learnt was that far from improving soil, the addition of lime simply acted as a catalyst, giving a short-term gain and only speeded up the loss of fertility. Bring back the loads of sea-weed!

Work on hedges, walls and field boundaries are crying out for investigation - so much to do, so much to enjoy.

The prolonged applause and clusters of people around Andrew into the night said it all - a huge success. Our warmest thanks to Andrew for sharing his wondrous knowledge and enthusiasm with us!

The Trust's next event is the Christmas party at the Creg Malin on December the 9 th . Nikki and Nigel are doing the catering- Ian Qualtrough will be M.C. together with a fair sprinkling of entertainers and much humour and good company. Forty-five tickets sold instantly. If you wish to come, ring Pam Quine on 842234 now.

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To our delight, the Commissioners agreed to join us on the 14th October. In the event, two were unavoidably absent, and two went missing on the night. However, this still left five members, kindly joined by the Clerk to the Commissioners.

In order to give the evening some form, I wrote to each of the guests suggesting that they might speak for a few minutes to introduce themselves, including their particular roles on sub-committees, to tell us why they wanted to be a commissioner and what they hoped to achieve. This, they all did brilliantly, showing a sense of strong sense of commitment to Peel.

I then moved on to seek their views about the likely reorganisation of local government into larger, combined units.

It soon became clear where benefits from reorganisation might be felt, particularly with refuse collection. The success of combining strengths has already been felt by the recent opening of the community swimming pool, in Peel, following years of combined effort by the western authorities. We were informed that a meeting with neighbouring rural authorities was due in the following week, so we look forward to news of the outcome.

When discussing refuse, the Commissioners were hoping that a fully integrated scheme of re-cycling and reuse would be instigated, nationally. This should include bottles, papers and newsprint. Members of the audience showed total support for this and asked for more collection points. It was accepted that not everyone had the means of carrying waste any distance but enough people could, to make a worthwhile difference.

Questions were invited from the audience. The first of these was a query as to whether or not the Commissioners, as the local housing authority, gave any special consideration in the points scheme for handicapped people. Unfortunately, this appeared not to be the case.

Christine Moughtin argued passionately for suitable housing provision using schemes of purchase and refurbishment with central government. Thelma Birkettt spoke of the high quality of the recently completed sheltered housing provision in St Johns. In fact, at this point, I just sat back as the Commissioners engaged in a determined discussion of schemes to address housing problems. Eventually, I had to cut this short, but not before gaining a promise that this will be an agenda item on the next Commissioners’ meeting.

We spent some time in assessing the impact of the large estates now encircling old Peel. This included social provisions in the last phase, just going through planning. This is intended to have some shopping provision, a pub, doctors’ surgery, nursery play area and some kind of social centre. The meeting was concerned that this should not develop into a ‘them and us’ situation and that our present efforts to integrate the new residents into the old town should continue.

The roads cause concern as Peel lacks a ring road, and part of the new system will, inevitably serve as such. With housing alongside it, safety considerations for children at play should be paramount. The modern trend of open lawn to the front of properties does less to restrain youngsters. A plea was made to deal with this before rather than after tragedies occur.

In reply to a question, the Town Clerk confirmed that 95% of the rates went on salaries, leaving a mere 5% for use in the town! It was suggested that economies of scale might be effected with a larger, combined authority. In the meantime, it was suggested that Castletown was the nearest in size to Peel and that a useful comparison of costs might be made.

Other matters raised included the condition of Castle Street Gardens and its play equipment, the new harbour bridge and the mounting parking problems.

After the vote of thanks, the formal part of the evening was replaced by informal discussions all round the room. This was a most important and much valued occasion. It went so well that we were considering ways in which the commissioners could, more easily, seek out public opinion. As a start, the next Commissioners’ meeting is on Tuesday, 4th November in the Town Hall at 7.30pm. Normally, meetings are on the 1st Wednesday in the month and the public are very welcome. Do go along.

The next Trust meeting is Tuesday, 11th November at 7.30pm in the Creg Malin Hotel. Andrew Johnson will give us an illustrated talk on recent Manx archaeological discoveries. It is entitled “Ruins and Rubbish”!

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The first thing I did after entering the Creg Malin on Tuesday, after securing a supply of the necessary lubricant, was to lend a hand in putting out even more chairs in the medieval banqueting room which was filling up at a very pleasing rate.

photo: Chris Littler. From left: Judith Ley, Keith Hewson,
Brenda Cannell, Ben Hartley

Previous Any Questions have been broadcast on Manx Radio so this annual event has built its own following. No-one was disappointed.

It’s always a bit of a gamble when you put a panel together, even in professional shows. The interplay of speakers and subjects is hard to predict so there’s always a frisson of excitement. We hit it lucky with Mrs Brenda Cannell, M.H.K., Ben Hartley, Peel Pantoloons star and producer and Manx Radio presenter, Keith Hewson, Traditional Boat Weekend guru, ex-Canberra aircrew, Peel Centenary Centre and Judith Ley, religious and musical broadcaster with her own highly successful marketing consultancy experience behind her – all sparkled.

Following my welcome, Sam Knight made the introductions and then launched into the first question, “Anti-social behaviour seems to be on the increase throughout the U.K. and in parts of the Island. Has bad behaviour been fuelled by the ‘Faliraki factor’ programmes on T.V. or is it the result of a lack of firm direction in the home?” Brenda opened the batting by commenting on the effects of working mothers, particularly during children’s early years. She told us how she was able to spend the first seven or eight years with her children and the dividends this had paid.

The importance of teaching moral values from the earliest years was emphasised, together with accountability for actions. Brenda felt that the labour shortage on the Island and the very competitive pressures on living standards all encouraged mothers out to work and away from their children. Might this short-term economic labour gain to the Island’s economy lead to long-term social and financial cost?

Judith Ley illustrated the perceived decline in standards of behaviour with the following. She is concerned with accommodation for Manx Blind Welfare and an adjacent sheltered housing scheme. Skateboarders around these premises are a real hazard. When the Warden remonstrated with one of these youngsters, saying, “You shouldn’t be here,” his response was, “You’re the one who shouldn’t be here - you should be dead!”

Judith spoke about the need to give young people a genuine sense of self-value by involving them in worthwhile activities, giving a much greater and lasting “high” than drink or drugs.

Ben strongly agreed with this. He added that he and some friends had holidayed in Aya Nappa and found nothing of the excesses portrayed on t.v., posing a question over selection and enhancement by programme makers in over-sensationalism in rating wars.

Training in good manners was seen to be vital and positive involvement in activities such as the Peel Pantoloons and now its year round arts activities in the new centre will enrich thousands more young lives.

Keith blamed over-liberal society and its over-readiness to excuse bad behaviour. His mother was widowed when he was only five and yet the family grew up soundly. Criminal behaviour carried such a social stigma that the majority behaved themselves.

Not surprisingly, many of the audience, including Hazel Hannan, M.H.K. and Frances Watterson, retired J.P. made thoughtful contributions. All gave thanks that the majority of youngsters in Peel area credit and the town, with its small, personal supportive environment helping in this – (long may this continue!)

The second question was, “Will the new bishop put a smile on the face of worshippers?” This question was prompted, I think, by a newspaper quoting the bishop as having made a comment that worshippers were leaving churches without a smile on their faces.

The panel thought that a great deal would depend on the nature and personality of the person concerned.

I found myself adding that it might be better if we gave thought as to how the Island might put a smile on the face of the bishop! He is facing a tremendous challenge in taking responsibility for clergy and laity, alike. This responsibility is awesome, because the Island is more than a diocese - it is a whole nation. It also is a responsibility for souls. It is bad enough to be responsible for the physical or mental welfare of others!

In practice, of course, the Island will offer its support and, working together, we might go a long way to solving some of the concerns raised by the first question.

Question three was a corker – “Who controls the Isle of Man, politicians, the electorate or the developers?”

Brenda was in no doubt that it was now the developers and argued a cogent, supportive case. Some politicians were interwoven into this and given current investigations and outstanding cases, I must step aside at this point!

Keith added that we tend not to have professional politicians with appropriately supporting degrees and experience, as is often the case in the U.K. and elsewhere, sometimes making them vulnerable in the face of slick, well-supported parties with specialist highly-qualified legal teams. This sentiment was shared by fellow panellists and also, with concern by the audience. How influential will public debate be on the question, “Where does the power lie?”

The penultimate question was, “Can Peel support a community centre for the arts?” There were no doubts here - a resounding “Yes” all round. The transformation of the two halls is almost complete with many tradesmen and others giving freely of their time. Thanks were expressed to these and notice was given of the many groups and individuals already booked in for productions, theatrical and musical. Films are in the offing as are professional recording studios. Press, radio and posters are filling with announcements of good things. The first public meeting in the new venue in Atholl Street will have taken place by the time this article hits the streets. Come and see for yourself.

A member of the audience then rose and asked about the history of the Creg Malin, where we were meeting. So much information and so many memories were shared by panel and audience, that these deserve a separate article, possibly in our newsletter.

Our warmest thanks were given to this remarkably successful panel followed by well-deserved applause.

The next Trust meeting should be packed to overflowing. It is on Tuesday, October the 14th at 7.30pm in the Creg Malin. It is entitled, “Meet the Commissioners.” They should all be present and will have an opportunity to talk about their hopes and plans for Peel and will happily answer questions and then mingle. Given the current debate about the future of local government, this is very important. All are welcome from Peel or elsewhere.

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Last month’s highly successful visit to Castletown was followed, this month, by another warm welcome, this time to Laxey. Andrew Scarffe and a couple of chums from Laxey and Lonan Heritage Trust had kindly agreed to show us around parts of the mining complex. The day was brilliant and a large number of us assembled outside Brown’s Café, paying our tribute to global warming by clutching bottles of water.

I can only touch upon the wealth of knowledge that Andrew enthusiastically shared with us. The story began in 1780, rather later than elsewhere on the Island. Lead and silver were the principle metals that were being sought and extracted. The Kirk Lonan Mining Association with William Hillary, of lifeboat fame, headed into success in the 1830s with rich finds and lots of money – not that much of this seems to have found its way into miners’ threadbare lives.

This became a London registered company giving shareholders considerable riches. By the 1870s, it was producing 50% of Britain’s Zinc, 3 – 4 % of its Lead. £4 shares were selling for £30.

However, this success story, like dot com, burst. Cheap foreign imports, rich ore veins running out and flooding led to no dividend at all in 1900. 1919 the mines closed, 1921 saw a brief re-opening and by the 1930s it was finished. By this time, parts of the mine were deeper than the height of Snaefell and much of it was dependent on rickety ladders. The disasters from the collapsing man engine and other appalling neglects of miners’ safety are well documented. The heroism of these men was remarkable, with no protective clothing and just a candle stuck in a lump of mud on their primitive helmets to light their way and work.

Many may now feel that Health and Safety has become its own monster, but at least it is well intentioned and is striving to protect workers and public alike. In general, it is doing a good job, even if one sometimes feels over-protected by railings, painted lines and restricted access to once-favourite haunts. Imported litigious trans-Atlantic culture has probably aided this, especially with the insurance industry increasingly multi-nationally based.

We examined the washing floors, learning how the ore was crushed and washed and even swirled around to separate the heavier metals from the rock spoil. This gradually formed an artificial mountain that was not dispersed until the construction of Andreas airfield in the second World War. Incredibly, the mass of fascinating mining and processing machinery was smashed up in the 1950s. What a tragic loss of an important part of our national industrial architecture and heritage!

It is almost certain that, in the present climate of opinion, much of this would have been saved. However, one can only say, ‘almost certain’ when you think of the continuing loss of some of the Island’s finest buildings and artefacts. However, water wheels are being set up to show how the machinery was once powered and replacement steam locomotives for the Ant and the Bee are in the course of construction. With any luck, they should soon be hauling the already constructed ore wagons on the newly-laid track. This is a fantastic operation centred, I believe, on the Laxey Mines Group. These chaps must have inherited the same qualities of determination and persistence from their ancestors.

‘Lady Isabella’ keeps turning, of course, well, not when we were there as it is due to have a new bearing fitted, we were told, in the next few days. Thank goodness that this incredible piece of machinery has survived as a Victorian tourist attraction. Without this ‘re-cycling’ of purpose, this too, no doubt, would have been reduced to rubble and scrap. A number of people asked when the old girl would receive her protective coat of white paint on the stonework. Apparently, there is some debate about her original finish, but our guides showed us early photographs of gleaming white stonework.

Looking at the present site, it is hard to picture it alive with 700 men and all the ancillary services that were required to support them. However the local conservation and heritage groups, in conjunction with the local commissioners and the indefatigable Manx National Heritage are doing a magnificent job in breathing life into the dead bones. Thank goodness that we have such dedicated and well-informed people to bring our past back to life. A nation that has lost its past will also lose its future.

We must have been well behaved because we have been invited back to share in Lady Isabella’s 150th anniversary celebrations. This is going to be a really magnificent event so we look forward to that.

My thanks to our charming guides was accompanied by well-deserved applause. We look forward to entertaining them in the near future.

Our next adventure is to Ramsey Shipyard. Meet there at 2.00 pm on Sunday, August the 17th. Still more friends to meet – the pleasure goes on and on! Remember, everyone is welcome, so put the date in your diary straight away.

[External link to Laxey Mines Research Group]

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Organising any meeting is something of a gamble. Even in Peel Heritage Trust, with our large and loyal membership, we always feel a tension before an event. Even careful preparation, double-checking speakers, equipment, venues, dates and times still leaves the great unknown – will a good audience appear? These problems are compounded on our summer ‘away-days’ with possible transport and weather problems.

Jonathan Kewley, of Castletown Heritage, was our leader to explore the ancient heart of the nation’s previous capital. Clearly, his well-deserved reputation had gone ahead of him.

Any lingering concerns about a good crowd evaporated as fast as the mist that we had driven through in the ethereal heights of Foxdale. The Old Grammar School quickly filled and we set off to a prompt start.

Despite having a group of over thirty, Jonathan was always clearly seen and heard and kept us all together without recourse to shouting or waving of umbrellas, as beloved by foreign tour guides. Mind you, to be fair, we were the only group going round and disturbing the Sunday afternoon peace!

There is such a wealth of fine buildings, national and local history in Castletown, that the problem is one of selection in order to make a balanced presentation in the time available. This was brilliantly done with Jonathan saying, early on, that he would make little reference to the castle as this, alone, would occupy more time than we had available.

The Old Grammar School and the fine stone buildings surrounding it made an excellent starting point. It also emphasised the loss of buildings to form a car park, necessary though these ghastly intrusions are seen to be. It also highlighted the damaging effect of plastic windows in a historic building. Who would dream of ‘restoring’ a fine, old motor car with lumps of plastic or an ‘old master’ painting with modern acrylic plastic paints? It must be remembered that these buildings are old masters in themselves and any adulteration that we commit begins the destruction of not just the buildings and the atmosphere that they create, but also the historical record. A nation that destroys its history eventually destroys itself.

We must all be aware that we don’t buy an old building – we only buy a slice of time. We will go and the building will remain. It will display for the next generation either our care or our neglect. Fortunately, the growing support of heritage and conservation groups allied to the work of a still quite new Conservation Section of D.O.L.G.E. is starting to save something of what remains of our built heritage. If you question the value of this, take a careful look, as we were able to do, at the heart of Castletown.

I find it a sobering experience when visiting the Cotswold villages or Lake District at the level of care that those authorities take of their heritage for us to enjoy. Do we take the same level of care of our inheritance? If not, why do we have such a low regard for our island home and the work of our ancestors?

With these thoughts in mind, we explored not just the principle streets but many narrow by-ways and vistas. The square and Parade gave way to the crooked, medieval shopping streets. Even some of these, our guide observed, had been despoiled by Disney World nightmares of incorrect, artificial block paving and street furniture. Fine old lamp brackets were replaced by modern, pseudo fittings from an American B-movie of Ye Olde England – a cross between modern housing estate and a well- known toffee tin. What has happened to visual arts and history in the education process? Is there anyone left out there to carry the torch of learning?

Even the odd aberration could not dim our enjoyment for long. So much in the town is fine and so much is heading in the right direction. This was particularly so part way round when we were conducted into the delightful bowling green and its café. Here we were served cup after cup of tea, accompanied by wonderful home- made cake – what a treat. This is a place not to be missed.

John’s illuminating well-informed, humorous commentary ensured that we all sprang to our respective feet and, in some cases, sticks despite the lure of more tea, brilliant sunshine, comfy seats and brightly -coloured, scented flower beds.

Churches, some better converted to other uses than others, memories of a cinema and much-loved shops with fantastic shop- fronts that really MUST be saved, in situ, brought us back to our starting point. Heads had been up and down buildings from delicate architectural detailing to whole streetscapes and portraits of local characters.

It says everything that before I started a vote of thanks, spontaneous applause broke out. Well-done Jonathan and Castletown Heritage. You did Peel Heritage Trust proud and we thank you. Long may you and Castletown Heritage flourish! We are really looking forward to returning the compliment next year.

Our next ‘away-day’ is on Sunday, July 13th. Meet outside Brown’s Café, Ham and Egg Terrace, Laxey at 2.00pm when we are the guests of Laxey and Lonan Heritage Trust. Andrew Scarffe and Pat Newton will be our guides for a walking tour of the mining complex. It will not be too demanding, with plenty of spots for the over twenty-ones to pause to ‘admire the view’.

Everyone is welcome, so put this on the calendar right away!

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Now we know where the brains are – Sulby. What other village has enjoyed the benefit of seven schools!

On Sunday, the 18th May, Peel Heritage Trust was, once more, the guest of Sulby and Lezayre Heritage Trust. This time, we enjoyed daylight for the whole visit. On a previous occasion we were sharing glow worms.

Juan Vernon had kindly agreed to show us some of the schools in and around the village and to tell us something about their history.

A goodly number of our members met in the car park of the new school. This remarkably fine building was the generous gift of Dr McDonald who, quite properly, used his favourite architect and builder, working in harmony with the Department of Education, to produce a wonderful building to a very high standard of detailing and finish. It has been designed with the possibility of future extension in mind. This is clearly over-due as the dreaded mobile classrooms have arrived. It will be interesting to see government matching the quality of a single benefactor.

Juan pointed to the features that had been incorporated to be in harmony with the previous school, just across the generous playing fields. Indeed, he had been Head of that school and, taking us down to it, pointed out the charming period features such as the toilets at the end of the playground, emptying into the traditional pit, beneath. I was reminded of this feature in a Fenland school where one of the duties of the Head was to open the doors at each end and to remove the contents, from time to time, with a bucket and rope. Not many teachers would regard that as a reasonable part of their professional duties, these days!

We were taken up to the heart of the village to the dame school, now a private home in the course of very sympathetic updating. The owner kindly showed us about, including the beautifully constructed well in the garden. This was a vital need of all schools as there was no mains water and they were reliant on a reliable local source of water. No hot water for washing, of course, but at least the staff and children had some means of keeping themselves reasonably clean and watered.

We didn’t actually get as far as the Mountain School. This is up a track at Tholt-y-Will and will be explored at a later date.

One school is even part of the church which, unusually, does not have its altar at the east end – very confusing for those of us who rely on churches to check on the points of the compass.

Sulby and Lezayre Heritage Trust entertained us to a wonderful Manx tea – masses of homemade sandwiches and cakes – truly scrumptious. Our warmest thanks to this delightful group of people! If you live in or nearby in this gorgeous part of the Island and have yet to become a member, hesitate no longer!

We are particularly keen on exchange visits as it helps to cement the ties between those who truly care for the Island’s heritage and are not content to just moan and wring their hands. Another great benefit is that we all make masses of new friends.

Fingers are crossed for fine weather when Sulby and Lezayre visit us, a little later, this year. I suppose that we must regard the weather as part of our heritage, as well.

On Sunday, the 22nd June, it’s Castletown Heritage who’s going to brave the arrival of Peel. Jonathan Kewley is going to kindly show us around the centre of our ancient capital. Meet on the old Grammar School car park in time for a 2.30pm start.

We are eagerly awaiting this visit, billed as ‘Castletown with Kewley’. Get this in your diary and on your calendars now – this is unmissable!

As always, you can contact Sam Knight, our secretary, on 842448 or, if he’s proved to be elusive, give me a ring or fax on 842541.

Remember, you can keep up to date via our website www.peelheritagetrust.net

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Heritage Trust reports a healthy balance and subscriptions to remain unchanged

I have delayed writing about Peel Heritage Trust's annual general meeting so that I can include details of the election of officers that took place at the following committee meeting.

Retiring chairman Brian Riddle welcomed the very large gathering that filled the Phillip Christian Centre. He then handed over to me as a pre-arranged acting secretary. Sam Knight, for the first time since the birth of the trust more than a decade ago, was away.

The minutes from the 2002 meeting were read and approved and we launched into the chairman's report.

Brian thanked the committee, our many speakers, supporters and highly enthusiastic membership. Meeting throughout the year, inside and outdoors, were consistently well supported with even our usual venue at the Creg Malin packed.

Our thanks were expressed to Brian for his two splendid years at the helm. he continues to serve on the committee.

Harrison Quirk presented his meticulously audited accounts. It is to his credit that the the subscription rate has been unchanged at £3 single and £5 for a family since the trust's foundation.

We have a healthy balance for an increasing range of activities, thanks to a policy of ensuring that special events such as Peel's Secret Gardens are than self-financing.

It is a tribute to the interest in this ancient city that so many people come to support our activities, even from off-Island.

Pam Quine and Sam Knight retired from the committee, by rotation, but were re-elected forthwith. However, the constitution permits the co-option of further members and a very healthy number of volunteers indicated their enthusiasm for joining the main committee on one or more of the various specialist teams for particular projects, such as further work on the railway display at the water tower.

The open forum, concluding the first half of the meeting, brought forth not just good ideas for programme events but also for new activities. One of these is the long-lingering saga of the Peel City Guardian newspaper.

I was pleased to be able to report the recent receipt of letters from the present proprietor and the renewed intent to transfer the title to the trust. The meeting offered unanimous support subject to one or two caveats that should not be a problem.

A number of people, including Dr Malcolm Hannon, James Corkish, Frances Coaker and Chris Littler, indicated interest in joining our small publishing team. This augurs well for a number of projects that are already on the stocks and introduces further possibilities. Our established policy of doing our best to ensure that these schemes are financially viable continues. Harrison keeps us in order, in this respect!

Chris Littler has kindly volunteered to set up a web site for the Trust. This is being actively progressed.

Following a refreshment interval, we enjoyed a fascinating talk by member Pat Skillicorn on the Doughty Twins of Peel. This was a tremendous tale of two men who might have been labeled 'firebrands', who fought for the under-dogs and rose to the eminent ranks of MHKs.

It was such a tremendous tale that I won't attempt to summarise it, but we hope to persuade Pat to let us publish it, possibly in our regular newsletter. The audience responded with such enthusiasm that we must make it more widely available.

I feel honoured to have been elected chairman for the second time to lead a fine team with Sam Knight continuing as secretary, Harrison Quirk as treasurer and membership secretary. The other members continue, enriched by the co-option of Thelma Birkett, Dorothy Bridson, Vic bates and Chris Littler.

The full committee will be set out on your new membership and programme card. If you're not a member don't despair - just ring Harrison Quirk, on 842265, or turn up at any meeting.

There are lots of new members and we enjoy the challenge of making room for even more. Your subscription includes the illustrated newsletter and the friendship comes free!

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Given the on-going debate about nationality, the combination of the title 'Who are the Manx' and Charles Guard with guests was set to be a special event and so it proved. The Creg Malin was packed for Peel Heritage Trust's January meeting.

Charles Guard was accompanied by Mark Kermode and Phil Gawne. They were warmly welcomed and introduced by our redoubtable secretary, Sam Knight. Charles’ work in filming the Island from above and below as well as on the surface is well known. Composer, performer, historian and stalwart of the Manx Heritage Foundation are further strings to his bow.