The Positive Action Group was launched in November 2006 with the aim of lobbying for more open, accountable government, rigorous control of public finances and a fairer society for all.

PAG has been nominated in the community champion category of the Flybe-sponsored awards by nursery manager Rachel Staley, 29, of Banks Howe, Onchan.

She said: 'I just think it's good there are people out there who are getting people interested in politics. Being quite young, I didn't know a lot about politics and PAG has opened my eyes about what's going on and helped make me have an input.

'PAG has provided everyone in the Island with a genuine public forum to raise issues of local concern to pressurise politicians for change.

'Since formation in 2006, it has set up a website, held public forums, organised quest speaker events, made formal submissions to government, appeared on Manx Radio, issued press releases and sent letters to the paper. It has encouraged formation of both the IoM Mediation Service and TravelWatch.

'Current issues are on an Isle of Man wind farm and separate drug and alcohol strategies.'

PAG chairman Roger Tomlinson said: 'It's very gratifying to be nominated — and quite a shock.

'I think we've made a difference and there is now a greater involvement of the public in what government is doing.'


>>Click here to download and print a Pride in Mann nomination form (pdf)