Basque-clad CSPs, biscuit rustlers and strictly Morris dancing MHKs were among those who released their ‘inner criminal’ as well as their inhibitions, broke out of their daily routine – and jail – to raise funds for Age Concern Isle of Man. For the 2011 event the charity’s biggest annual fundraiser Jail and Bail took a different direction – northwards to Jurby and the Isle of Man Prison, from where the ‘criminals’ organised a mass break out. Had they known what the weather was going to be that evening, though, they may have preferred to remain ‘at Her Majesty’s pleasure’ rather than be subjected to communal camping, spending a night under canvas - and under sufferance - in Glen Wyllin, then being forced on the Saturday morning to make their way back minus money and mobiles to police headquarters in Douglas. PDMS managing director Chris Gledhill, a ‘victim’ in the 2010 event, arranged a series of challenges for the teams on the Saturday during which he observed some memorable demonstrations of ingenuity, imagination and initiative or, as he put it, ‘cheating’. Chris said: ‘It was a great performance all round and first past the post were MHKS Bill Malarkey, Graham Cregeen and Tim Crookall, who would have won on points, too, had it not been for some spectacular cheating. And a big thank you must go to the Ard Whallin Outdoor Centre for letting us use their facilities at short notice.’ The cheating, which involved arranging for a pre-boiled egg to be delivered en route back to Douglas, cost the three politicians the victory which was awarded to the HSBC team, who will be presented with the Heron and Brearley shield, a first for the event and for the hospitality and leisure company that has pledged to support for Age Concern Isle of Man in its fundraising initiatives. Other notable performances were from the Heron and Brearley team of Ian Large, Matt Lewis and Shaun McEntee, despite nursing an injured ankle, while bankers from a number of local finance houses put up creditable shows of endurance under stress. Age Concern Isle of Man’s Carole Male, who co-ordinated and organised the jail break, said: ‘This year’s event was the most ambitious yet, and thanks to the tremendous support and enthusiasm of so many organisations and individuals, it’s fair to say it proved an unqualified success. It was hard work but also great fun. It would be impossible to list all the people who helped us, but I’d like to take the opportunity to offer a huge thank you to everyone who supported us. However, special mention must go to Sergeant Wendy Barker and Constable Damon Carberry who made the “arrests” and to the authorities at Isle of Man Prison for their co-operation and willingness to enter into the spirit of things and, importantly, for helping us put the “fun” into fundraising.’ Chief executive George Quayle said: ‘Jail Break has involved so many organisations and individuals - including our own team here at Age Concern HQ – and demonstrates the exceptional strength of community involvement that distinguishes the Isle of Man. Despite these difficult times, it is encouraging to see that local businesses are still willing to devote time, energy and, indeed, money, to helping us provide a better quality of life for older people in the Isle of Man. Thank you, everyone, for your continued support.’ www.ageconcerniom.com ENDS