In this week’s Manx Independent, we report the latest on the Steam Packet’s silt problems in our lead story.

Also this week:

Part two of our photo review of the year. There are some real corkers in it.

We meet a contender for the accolade of ’friendliest cat in the Isle of Man’.

While Christmas and New Year might be full of festive fun for many, it’s by no means everyone. We talk to the Samaritans about how they work in the Isle of Man at this time of year.

Drink-driver Sam Hudson is sentenced.

The lease at the Sound Cafe is up for grabs.

A local authority is pioneering help for women who are going through the menopause.

A 30-year-old offender, Jude Sneddon, has been sentenced for being drunk and disorderly after a campsite row with his partner.

Former chief minister Tony Brown has described the new bus shelters in Castletown as ’an absolute disgrace’.

Mike Wade reviews the Hello Little People pantomime.

A councillor says we need to do more to encourage electric vehicles.

The Ramsey Probus Club tells us about its plans for 2022.

A charity has paid tribute to one of its long-time volunteers, Olga Gray, who died last week.

Pictures from Hunt the Wren events.

Teenager Jacob John Cooper has been sentenced after two assaults in just over a month.

Island Life looks forward to comedians lined up to visit next year.

Two local up-and-coming stars of the stage, Abbie Williams and Lewis Pycroft, have been given a boost as they further their careers in the performing arts.

Artwork commissioned for the new Steam Packet vessel, Manxman.

Members of the Isle of Man Arts Council reflect on our creative community and the hard work and resilience shown by everyone during the year.

There are two pages devoted to that Boxing Day tradition, Cammag, a game that pits the north of the island against the south. But who won?

Our sports pages include the results of the Santa Dash.

The Boxing Day pairs enduro at West Kimmeragh features on the back page and nominations have opened for the Sports Awards.

There is also plenty of community news, a page of your letters, our puzzles pages, the gig guide and a seven-day television guide.

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