A celebration was held at Government House in Onchan to mark Tynwald President Steve Rodan being named on the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

He was recognised for his outstanding service and dedication to the Isle of Man.

Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney and Lady Gozney hosted a gathering ahead of him receiving the award at Buckingham Palace next year.

His wife Ana, Mayor of Douglas Jon Joughin, Captain of the Parish of Onchan Peter Kelly plus many friends and colleagues attended the event.

He first found out about his OBE in June. ’No one was more surprised than me,’ he said.

’There are other people who do remarkable things in public life and to have been chosen was a great honour and I’m most thankful to my wife for her support in everything I’ve done over the years.

’We have considered it a real privilege to have lived in the Isle of Man for more than 30 years and have enjoyed playing a small part in the life of the island.’

The Glaswegian moved to the island in the 1980s and immersed himself into the historic, cultural, charitable and political life here. Starting as a pharmacist in Laxey, he became a village commissioner from 1991 until his elevation to a Garff MHK in 1995. He became Tynwald President and a member of the Legislative Council in 2016.

Mr Rodan will receive his OBE while wearing a Manx kilt in February and will be joined by his wife and two daughters, Lisa and Moira.