Singing farmer Paul Costain named as new captain of Rushen Parish

Paul Costain will be officially sworn to the role in before the end of the year

A well-known farmer and singer has been named the newest captain of a parish on the Isle of Man.

Paul Costain has been asked to take on the role in Rushen by the Lieutenant Governor after the retirement of Stan Clucas in September.

Mr Costain said it was a "great honour" to take on "a role steeped in tradition".

He said he admired his neighbour and mentor Mr Clucas' dedication and service, and had "big boots to fill".

The role of captain, which is held in each of the island's 17 parishes, has become largely ceremonial and involves attending the Tynwald Hill proceedings on the island's national day each year.

But one duty, which is that of being obliged to call a public meeting if an issue of public concern arises, remains.

'Tremendously lucky'

A three-time-winner of the top prize at the Manx Music Festival, Mr Costain regularly sings at events around the island.

He also runs Moorhouse Farm in Colby with his partner, which was where the island's Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer visited to ask him to take up the position.

A spokesman for Arbory and Rushen Parish Commissioners said the board welcomed Mr Costain's appointment and said he gave a "huge amount of his time to our community".

Paul Costain won the Cleveland Medal at the Manx Music Festival in 2016, 2018 and 2023

Praising his predecessor's "dedication and service", Mr Costain said he was "tremendously lucky" to have Mr Clucas as a farm neighbour and mentor.

He said: "He has known me all my life and had 25 marvellous years in office.

"He, along with his wife and daughters, have contributed a lot to parish life."

Mr Costain will be sworn in as Captain of the Parish of Rushen at a ceremony at Government House later this year.

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