A fairly famous group of street performers has been in the island for a series of performances and workshops at primary and secondary schools, culminating in performances at St John’s today (Tynwald Day).

Known as The Fairly Famous Family, the group, from Ambleside in Cumbria, has been travelling to the island since 2000 to stage entertaining street theatre that provides amusement to adults and children alike.

Jem ’Famous’ Hulbert, founder of The Fairly Famous Family, has entertained throughout Britain and across Europe, including performances in front of the Queen and Sir Norman Wisdom and has also provided a support act for The Rolling Stones.

Jem and his son Joss performed a series of colourful shows and performance workshops, starting with performances at Anagh Coar School, Foxdale School, Manor Park School, Queen Elizabeth II High School and Ballakermeen High School.

Jem ’Famous’ Hulbert said: ’We are delighted to return to the island to perform for local schools. It is also a great privilege to entertain at St John’s on Tynwald Day.’

With ’Our Culture’ being celebrated throughout July, as part of Year of Our Island 2018, Jem and Joss will be wearing their bollan bane (mugwort worn on the day by tradition) at Tynwald and flying the Manx flag. Culture Vannin and Yn Unnid Gaelgagh, the schools’ Manx Gaelic team, have helped translate ’The Fairly Famous Family’ into Manx: ’Yn Lught-Thie Bunnys Ard-Ghooagh’

In readiness for entertaining the Tynwald Day crowds, a suitable Manx proverb has been found, too: ’Myr smoo yn cheshaght s’reaie yn chloie’ - The bigger the company, the merrier the play.

Jem and Joss are also planning to give support to the efforts of Bill Dale and his Beach Buddies.

The Steam Packet has supported the trip.

Ferry company boss Mark Woodward said: ’The Fairly Famous Family offers a unique style of entertainment that has proved extremely popular in our island’s schools. We are pleased to assist the team’s return once again.’