Entries for two exclusive VIP family history experiences, one which includes a 3-day visit to the Isle of Man were drawn earlier this month. Robert Shimmin from Widnes, Cheshire won an exclusive visit to the Isle of Man, courtesy of Isle of Man Tourism with VIP access to the Manx National Heritage archives, associated collections and a personal genealogist from the Isle of Man Family History Society to research their Manx family connections! The prize also included the full set of Isle of Man PO Genealogy Stamps issued by Isle of Man Stamps and Coins. In February of this year Manx National Heritage, Isle of Man Stamps and Coins and the Isle of Man Family History Society collectively exhibited at ‘Who Do You Think You Are. Live!’, Europe’s largest family history research exhibition at London Olympia. A visit to the stands gave visitors the opportunity to win the return trip to the Isle of Man to research their Manx family connections in the new iMuseum. Winner Robert Shimmin and his wife Sue visited the Island this August and claimed their prizes. Paul Weatherall comments; “Robert Shimmin has been a regular visitor to the Manx Museum Library and Archive service, researching his family history over many years. His competition win will help him fill in some of the gaps in his research with the expert assistance of Priscilla Lewthwaite from the Isle of Man Family History Society and the extensive collection of parish registers, wills and other records in our archive collections. I’m sure that Robert will find many of his ancestors mentioned in the Manx newspapers during his visit to the iMuseum on Kingswood Grove. He will be able to download copies of any articles that he discovers and build up a record of some fascinating Manx social history to add to the names and dates on his extensive genealogical chart.” Geoff Corkish, MBE, Political Member of Tourism said; “Congratulations to Robert and Sue, who are both extremely fond of the Isle of Man and have a great passion for exploring their Manx connections, I hope they enjoyed a very special few days on the Island.” The VIP research day competition was also extended to the local audience. Local winner Mrs Quaggin from Onchan will enjoy the same VIP experience in the iMuseum. The prize for both winners also includes a VIP Pass to Manx National Heritage visitor attractions, and lunch in the Bay Room Restaurant. Readers interested in researching Manx family history will find The Isle of Man Family History Society and the iMuseum and Manx Museum Reading Room a great starting point. The iMuseum was officially opened earlier this year during Tynwald Week, and will be launched online in Spring 2012. Highlights have included the 400,000 pages of Manx newsprint where visitors have uncovered fascinating stories about their relatives, houses and businesses. The iMuseum which is situated on Kingswood Grove, a short walk from the Manx Museum, is open Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Thusdays until 7pm. Entry is free, with a small charge for print outs. For more information on the Isle of Man Family History Society visit www.iomfhs.im. ENDS