Architectural historian Peter Kelly has been officially appointed Captain of Onchan Parish, in a ceremony at Government House.
He succeeds farmer Harvey Briggs, who recently stepped down on health grounds.
Mr Kelly was elected an Onchan commissioner at the age of 27 and, after his three-year term of office, became clerk to the parish board.
His services were retained by Onchan District Commissioners after the village and parish amalgamated, and he worked for the local authority for 32 years, until last summer.
Mr Kelly is well known for his work with the Isle of Man Victorian Society, and his extensive knowledge as an architectural historian.
He has also been chairman of the Isle of Man Scout Association for more than 30 years.
Mr Kelly succeeds a popular figure in Mr Briggs, whose long service to the community, particularly the farming industry, was recognised in 2008 when he received the Tynwald Honour, the highest accolade the Manx parliament can bestow.
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