A BBC veteran broadcaster attended the Isle of Man Fund Association’s Annual Dinner as its after-dinner guest speaker at the Palace Hotel and Casino in Douglas on Friday (14 March 2014).
RBS International was the main sponsor of the evening, which welcomed nearly 200 guests. Isle of Man Fund Association’s Chairman, Mr Paul Kneen opened the evening with an update on the association’s plans for the coming year, followed by an overview on current activity from the Isle of Man Funds Association’s London representative, Ian Morley, who in turn introduced the Minister for Economic Development, John Shimmin MHK, who provided an update on Isle of Man Government’s work alongside the funds industry.
Guests enjoyed live music from one of the chosen charities for the evening - the Manx Youth Band, who were joined by band member and talented star of several local productions Miss Georgia Maddocks on vocals. After which, guests were addressed by the evening’s guest speaker, BBC broadcaster of over 35 years, Garry Richardson.
Best known as the sports presenter on Radio Four’s prestigious ‘Today’ programme, for whom he has covered all the main sporting events including the Olympic Games and Wimbledon; Mr Richardson has interviewed a variety of personalities from the world of sport and politics, including former President of the United States, Bill Clinton, who he informed the dinner had been persuaded to give an impromptu interview in the Royal box at Wimbledon, and former South African president Nelson Mandela and Hansie Cronje, the South African cricket captain.
Commenting on the event, Chairman of the Isle of Man Fund Association and Chief Executive Officer of Abacus Financial Services Group, Mr Paul Kneen, said: “The annual dinner is an occasion to highlight and celebrate the invaluable work of the Isle of Man Funds Association and its members, as we continue our ongoing efforts to promote the Isle of Man as an international business centre and a reputable and effective fund jurisdiction. The event provides a great opportunity for those working in the Island’s fund sector to meet and network, whilst celebrating the successes of the most recent year. I would like to express thanks to the Minister, RBS International for their continued support as main sponsor of the event; our guest speaker, Garry Richardson for his entertaining performance, and all those who kindly donated prizes for the charity raffle.”
Photo - [L-R] Hon. John Shimmin MHK (Minister for Economic Development); John Hunter, Director - Head of Financial Institutions at RBS International (Main sponsor of the evening); Garry Richardson (Guest Speaker and Veteran BBC Broadcaster), Paul Kneen, Chairman of Isle of Man Funds Association and Chief Executive Officer, Abacus Financial Services Group
