Wednesday 4th May saw a little bit of history when the first new Local Government Board in over a century met for the first time.

Previously the sheading of Garff had three local authorities, Laxey, Lonan and Maughold but after a number of years of working ever closer together they sought a Tynwald Order to combine in December of last year. On the 1st May the new Authority came into being.

Nigel Dobson, formally of Lonan Commissioners, was elected as the first Chairman and said: ‘I would like to thank all who have worked towards this day and I believe that the good will and trust that Commissioners have built up in recent times will ensure that we can offer the best local services that our electorate deserve.’

Robert Moughtin, formally with Maughold, was elected as Vice Chairman and said the he and Nigel had put 10 years into this project and at times thought this day would never happen. The Board and the public gallery then broke out in applause.

Among those who had come to see the first meeting was Garff MHK and Speaker of the House of Keys, Steve Rodan. He said: "This was an historic first meeting for the new board, and I am confident the new Commissioners will serve the community very effectively. My best wishes on the new set up, which was long overdue."

The Board then set about its business, something all member will strive to do for many years to come.

Photo - The new Board and its Officers.  Courtesy of Andrew Scarffe.