Three island residents have been recognised in the King’s birthday honours list.
David McLean and Stuart McKenzie have been given MBEs.
Wendy McDowell receives a British Empire medal.
Mr McLean, who is a keen musician, encouraged his local community to buy a historic venue, the old Methodist Centenary Hall, which under his leadership, was transformed into a theatre and community venue, the Peel Centenary Centre.
The centre, which opened in 2003, is run entirely by volunteers and the citation from Government House says ‘is a testament to Mr McLean’s generosity, drive and commitment’.
Government House says: ‘He interacts with everyone in a calm and caring manner and he and his team have worked hard to ensure that the centre’s facilities are in good order.
‘The centre is a vibrant hub for nurturing community participation in the arts and music, as well as a performance venue for world class musicians.’
In 2018, Mr McLean launched the annual ‘One Island our World’ festival, an international event which mixes traditional, contemporary and world music, as well as craft and the arts. This annual festival is attended by huge numbers of enthusiasts.
Government House adds: ‘Mr McLean works tirelessly in the daily running of Peel Centenary Centre, freely giving of his time, his musical talents and his organisational skills. His Majesty The King has made Mr David McLean an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List for the promotion of arts, culture and music in the Isle of Man.’
Following a Merchant Navy career, Captain Stuart McKenzie set up a local company, the Manx Computer Bureau.
As well as assisting the Isle of Man Government, he supported many local companies and businesses in developing the application of computers and software to their various requirements.
In 2001, he established the McKenzie Trust with his wife Barbara, which still provides many would-be entrepreneurs with advice, grants and loans to help them set up their own companies.
In 2015, Captain McKenzie became founder member of Ramsey Queen’s Pier Restoration Trust, becoming chairman in 2018.
He put his previous experience and wide range of skills and abilities into this project.
Government House says: ‘In the role of project manager, he was very much the driving force behind the planned restoration, as it progressed from planning to the survey and construction phases. It is a great tribute to his determination and tenacity that the Island will inherit a magnificent refurbished Victorian Pier.
‘Captain James Stuart McKenzie has been appointed an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List for his outstanding contribution to the Isle of Man community.’
Mrs McDowell has been an active member of local drama and musical societies, choirs and festivals since the 1960s.
Most notably, she has contributed to the Manx Music Festival (the Guild), as a competitor, teacher, accompanist and committee member. S
She is an organist at St Peter’s Church, Onchan, where she is also choir mistress, composing and arranging choral music.
During her 10-year term as council member and chair of the Isle of Man Arts Council in the 1990s, she was instrumental in the refurbishment of the Villa Marina and the establishment of the Ballakermeen Studio Theatre.
From 1962 until 2020, Mrs McDowell was the accompanist and deputy conductor for the Regal Singers.
She continues to organise fund-raising concerts, in which she always takes part and over time she has helped raise thousands of pounds for local charities.
She also entertains at nursing and residential homes, as well as playing the piano and organ at many churches.
Government House says: ‘Mrs McDowell is a most caring and considerate lady, especially when helping others who sing, whatever their age.
‘Mrs McDowell has always given freely of her time for the benefit of others and to raise the profile of music and drama.
‘His Majesty The King has awarded Mrs McDowell a BEM in the King’s Birthday Honours List for her outstanding contribution to music and drama across the Isle of Man.
What is an MBE?
First instituted by King George V in 1917, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire has military and civilian divisions and five ranks.
Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) is the rank fifth in the level of seniority.
The MBE is awarded for an outstanding achievement or service to the community. This will have had a long-term, significant impact and stand out as an example to others.
What is a BEM?
The British Empire Medal (BEM) is awarded for a ‘hands-on’ service to the local community: a long-term charitable or voluntary activity, or innovative work of a relatively short duration (three to four years) that has made a significant difference.