Our charity of the week for Learning Disability Week 2025 is Manx Mencap. The term ‘learning disability’ is quite a broad brushstroke of course, and there are services users across the Island who will all have different requirements for support. Manx Mencap’s Fran Tinkler told me about some of the challenges and success stories that they are aware of.

Fran Tinkler tells us all about the Manx Mencap Charity, which works to improve opportunities for the Learning Disability community .They operate from Centre 21, Greenfield Rd in Douglas, you can call them on 01624 677289, email [email protected] or find out more about them and their services here.

Local author, explorer, photographer, musician and all-round IOM ambassador Andy 'Virgil' North has written and released a new publication in the popular global book series - the Wild Guide to the Isle Of Man. The book highlights the Island’s varied landscapes, hidden gems, wild swimming spots, heritage sites and more. Now available at most local bookshops, Manx Wildlife Trust in Peel and at the launch event on 19th June in Noa Market Hall, he told Christy all about it.

2025 marks the 10th birthday of Manx Carriage Driving for the Disabled. Like  a lot of local charities, they are on the lookout for volunteers in various roles, many of which don't even require you to be ‘horse minded’ (such as Secretary - a role they're keen to be filled!) Chris Quirk caught up with Patron Dr Bethany Haller Moore and also with Suzie Heap, who is undertaking the Parish walk to raise money for MCD4D, in memory of her grandmother who benefited from the charity's service.

Gary Gillies popped in to chat with Christy on what was a very auspicious day for him - not only his actual birthday, but also the day he fulfilled a 50year dream to be on Manx Radio! Gary is on the lookout for music and movie memorabilia for an upcoming auction - maybe you had a post show drink with the Rolling Stones in the 70s and got them to sign your tshirt, or were in the crowd at the Cream gig in the 60s and caught a plectrum?

The Isle Listen inaugural Isle of Man Dodgeball Championships takes place 5:30pm – 9pm Friday 16th May 2025 at the NSC in Douglas, hosted by Active Souls. All funds raised go towards educational programmes in primary and secondary schools to equip young people with tools and techniques to support them with their mental health. Steven Downward and Mikey Haslett tell us all about it.

Registration closes at Midnight on Sunday 11th – sign up at https://www.islelisten.im/dodgeball/ Enquiries to [email protected]

Juan Christian and Steven Downward from Isle Listen tell us about Tough Mucka 2025. You can register for NOW* to get the EarlyBird discount Tough Mucka 2025 - IsleListen (*before May 1st). We also speak with John Keggin from event sponsor Island Escapes, and he reveals the brilliant prize they've donated for this year's event.

Artist Debra Tracey from Isle Be Creative tells us about her latest unique project, which aims to celebrate the achievements of adults aged 60 and over. 60 portraits will be created this year, to showcase a range of personalities, whether still here with us or from Manx history. You can nominate subjects using the form on her website islebecreative.co.im

We catch up with Jodie from Ramsey Garden Centre to find out what Spring treasures they have in stock, from bulbs & berries to fruit trees and veggies - not forgetting the solar mushroom lights!

Spring has most definitely sprung – it’s the time to clear out the shed, prep the garden and make space for the new. That also means you’re probably finding endless packets of leftover seeds, pots, books or tools – or maybe you’re looking for some inspiration for your green spaces? Never fear, The Seed Swap is here! Christy went up north in the glorious, plant loving sunshine to find out more from organiser Tanya Anderson.