The Mayor and Mayoress launched the 2018-2019 mayoral charity appeal with a short reception on Tuesday May 29 at the town hall for representatives of their three chosen charities:  Rotary Club of Douglas, Special Olympics Isle of Man and SSAFA Isle of Man.

 The Mayor and Mayoress with representatives from the Rotary Club of Douglas, Special Olympics Isle of Man and SSAFA Isle of Man

In a short speech he said he and the Mayoress had thought 'long and hard' about which causes to support. He spoke of the personal connection with Special Olympics following the loss of a family member who died while competing in South Korea in 2013. SSAFA Isle of Man was chosen in recognition not only of the support the charity provides to service veterans and their families, but also to acknowledge 2018 marking the centenary of the end of World War One. The Mayor is a member of the Rotary Club of Douglas. He has fond recollections of the charity from when he was a child in Douglas and praised the work of its literacy group and public-speaking competition. 

The Mayor and Mayoress with SSAFA Isle of Man representatives

Representing Special Olympics Isle of Man Tim Crookall MLC thanked the Mayor for his support and spoke of the dedication of volunteers who give freely of their time to coach the athletes. 'Your support means so much to them,' he said.

Representing SSAFA Isle of Man Brigadier Norman Butler said the charity 'was a bit special' in the Isle of Man as it was the second oldest branch after London, established in 1889. and carried out its work with island-based caseworkers. He continued: 'At a time when the charity is going through change, we're very grateful for the support from the Mayor and Mayoress.'

Speaking on behalf of the Rotary Club of Douglas David Gawne said the 95-year-old charity's work echoed that of the office of Mayor: service. He continued: 'So we're delighted that the first citizen of Douglas should have selected us for support.'