Tributes paid to 'true champion of Manx culture'

Geoffrey Corkish was elected as a Member of Legislative Council in 2013

Tributes have been paid to former politician and "true champion" of Manx culture Geoffrey Corkish, who has died at the age of 72.

First elected to the House of Keys in 2006, he served as member for Douglas West before being elevated to the Legislative Council in 2013, retiring from politics five years later.

A past winner of the Cleveland Medal - the top prize awarded at the annual Manx Music Festival - Mr Corkish was heavily involved in the local choral community, founding the island's Festival of Choirs in 2010.

The Isle of Man Arts Council, which he was chairman of for eight years, said it was "deeply saddened" by the death of "a true champion of the island's cultural life".

The council said Mr Corkish was "a distinguished public servant, celebrated baritone, and winner of the Cleveland Medal in 1983".

His "dedication to the arts was unwavering," and he was "always working to support, promote, and celebrate Manx culture and creativity," it said.

"Geoff's impact on the Island's creative community will be long remembered," it added.

Mr Corkish, who was appointed MBE in 2007 for services to the community, also served as vice-chairman of Culture Vannin between 2014 and 2018.

The organisation said he held the position at a "pivotal time for the charity" and had been a "key driving force" as it developed a culture centre in St John's.

Paying tribute, it said: "Geoff was one of life's natural born performers – his voice led many a Manx song, entertaining visitors and locals alike, and his warmth in front of an audience was simply infectious.

"His voice had the power to move you, but he could also make you laugh like no other.

"He will be missed as a champion of Manx culture in its myriad of forms – a true gentleman and friend."

'Fiercely proud Manxman'

After a career with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company which spanned five decades, Mr Corkish turned his attention to local politics in 2006, serving as a member of Tynwald for the next 12 years.

President of Tynwald Laurence Skelly said: "There was no doubt he cared greatly for the good of the island that he so passionately loved and cherished.

"He was a positive influence on all things Manx both in politics and his many charitable interests that run deep."

Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson said he and his former colleague had been elected "on the same day and we learnt the political ropes together".

Watterson said Mr Corkish was a "fiercely proud Manxman" who "took great pride" in representing his constituents.

"He was always the life and soul of the party and held court in his office as purveyor of biscuits to anyone passing," he said.

"You'll be much missed Geoff, and my heartfelt sympathies go out to Muriel and the family."

The Steam Packet said his "positivity and passion for the Island and its ferry company" was "unparalleled".

"Geoff was a friend to many and will be very much missed," the firm added.