The Manx Music Festival has appointed a new chairman and vice chairman.

After acting as vice chairman for five years, Anne Clarke was elected as chairman at the organisation’s annual general meeting, where Eric Quirk formally stood down after 12 months in the role.

John Riley, a former headteacher of St Thomas’ School, was appointed as vice chair.

Mrs Clarke has been a competitor and committee member of the Guild for many years.

She’s co-writer and producer of the Manx Gateway Drama Group’s annual play, in addition to being a regular judge of the Rotary public speaking competition and the Prayer Book Society’s Cranmer Awards.

Mrs Clarke said: ’My family has strong ties with the Guild, with generations before me having competed in its formative days and winning six highly coveted Cleveland Medals.

’My own singing talents never truly surfaced but my interest lies in the spoken word.

’I’m particularly keen to encourage young people to gain confidence in speaking before an audience and find it extremely gratifying to see youngsters grow and develop their talents.

’We hope to build on the success of 2019 with some exciting new classes for 2020 including "Anything Goes", where competitors will perform a musical or dance piece in keeping with the theme, which is Africa.

’Singing classes, in particular, continue to thrive and we’re lucky to have such a wealth of experienced accompanists who skilfully encourage children and adults to push themselves.’

Mrs Clarke also praised her predecessor for his commitment over the past year.

’Eric’s enthusiasm and energy over the last 12 months has been wonderful and we’re sad to see him step down,’ she said.

’There’s no doubt that he has made a lasting positive contribution to the Guild in his time. My involvement with the festival is something I am passionate about, and it continues to bring me joy and excitement each year, so I’m looking forward to this new challenge.’

Mr Riley is the conductor of island singing group Musicale, an organist of St Matthew’s Church, Douglas, the chairman of the Isle of Man Organists’ Association, and the director of the Manx Festival Chorus.

He said: ’Our aim is to keep moving forward by embracing new ideas while at the same time keeping alive the Guild traditions which are dear to the hearts of so many.

’Above all, we want to make it an enjoyable experience for everyone.

’We rely on the support of the community to stage this fantastic celebration of music, speech and dance and are grateful for the continued sponsorship provided by the Dandara Group, which is an enormous help.’

The 2020 Manx Music, Speech & Dance Festival will take place from April 25 to May 2.

The syllabus of the festival is available free in newsagents, libraries and other outlets.