Tim Crookall MLC, Minister for Education and Children, is offering his best wishes to the Isle of Man competitors taking part in the 16th NatWest Island Games.

The Isle of Man has sent a strong squad to the Channel Island to compete alongside 3,000 other athletes representing 23 island nations from around the world. The Manx contingent will be aiming for another impressive showing after topping the medal table at the 2013 Games in Bermuda with a haul of 36 gold, 36 silver and 25 bronze medals.

The opening ceremony in Jersey took place on Saturday evening at Howard Davis Park and will launch a week of sporting action across 14 different disciplines.

The Minister – whose department includes sport – said: ‘I am sure our athletes and officials will be tremendous ambassadors for the Isle of Man and will once again rise to the occasion in Jersey. As well as top class competition, the NatWest Island Games bring nations together and help to forge lasting friendships. The Isle of Man is the birthplace of the Games, having hosted the first competition during our Year of Sport in 1985, and it has been gratifying to watch the event grow in numbers and profile.’

He added: ‘Sport plays a big part in life in the Isle of Man and as a nation we work hard to create an environment that fosters talent and encourages our young people to flourish. An event such as the Island Games provides an opportunity for our athletes to compete on the international stage. It also highlights the outstanding contribution of the many coaches, officials, volunteers and parents who put in so much effort behind the scenes.’