Year of Our Island is gearing up for a busy August.

In addition to quality of life events, the project has partnered with groups and provided grant funding to various schemes in order to develop the range of activities available to residents during 2018.

Year of Our Island project chair Chris Thomas MHK said: ’The grant award scheme is a key part of the Year of Our Island project. We have partnered with multiple event and project organisers to enhance what’s available for residents on the Isle of Man and give people the opportunity to try something new.’

On August 17 and 18 Braddan Skatepark and Ballakermeen High School will host the Isle of Man Skateboarding’s Summer Slam 94, the island’s premier skateboarding meet-up. From 5 pm to 8 pm on August 17, ISB will be taking over Ballakermeen with a girls only skateboarding session hosted by female pro-coach Cath Shanks. The event is free and equipment will be provided.

On Saturday August 18 ISB will be at Braddan Skate Park for a day of competitions, activities and live music.

The meet-up will begin at 10 am with a beginners’ skateboarding session before moving onto a series of BMX and skateboarding competitions with the chance to win some brand new skateboarding equipment.

The week Befinning August 13 will also play host to Ramsey’s inaugural ’Island at War’ series of events. From Wednesday, August 15 to Sunday, August 19 there will be a number of activities throughout the town which aim to give attendees the opportunity to ’step back in time’.

Details can be found on the Ramsey Town Commissioners events page. This event takes inspiration from Isle of Man Transport’s long running Island at War commemoration, which this year will also take place on August 18 -19 and feature the D-Day Darlings as a special guest.

â?¢ Year of Our Island Grant funding is available up to £3,000 for existing events and projects and £6,000 for new events. Those looking to apply can contact the Year of Our Island team by emailing [email protected] or calling 687007.

by the Year of Our Island Project Team

www.ourisland.im