A Castletown man trying to get a break in the pub trade has accused Heron and Brearley of choosing overseas workers ahead of suitably qualified Manx ones.

Kenny Austin says he's been overlooked for an opening at the Glue Pot, despite knowing the pub and doing relief work there, with the brewery choosing someone from England instead.

Kenny feels he is suitably qualified though:

Meanwhile, Heron and Brearley says it’s committed to its Manx workforce and denies it prefers off-Island staff.

In a statement, the brewery says it has more than 800 people working for it, 92 per cent of whom are Manx workers.

It says Mr Austin didn’t have the necessary experience and skills to be a full-time manager.

The statement says the company’s assessment demonstrated Mr Austin didn’t yet have the skill mix and depth of experience, but he is still employed by Heron and Brearley.

The firm says although he wasn’t suitable for internal promotion, it offers every opportunity for employment and development.

It continues: 'Mr Austin has been given constructive feedback on the reasons why his application, on this occasion, did not meet our requirements. Additionally we have highlighted areas where Mr Austin’s performance fell short of Heron and Brearley’s high standards and we shall be offering guidance and support regarding his future.'