ALEX Downie MLC was quick to praise his colleagues after being awarded the OBE in the New Year's Honours list.

He has been involved in politics for 25 years - firstly as a Douglas councillor, then as a Member of the House of Keys and now as a Member of the Legislative Council.

He said: "I have had the privilege of working with a good team of people."

He acknowledged the hard work of Tim Craine, director of the Business Development Agency, Brian Johnson, director of Civil Aviation,  Dick Welsh, director of the Isle of Man Ship Registry and Garth Kimber, head of E-gaming Development - all who work for the Department of Economic Development headed by minister Allan Bell MHK - as well as businessman Bill Mummery, who is the former Director of E-gaming Development.

Mr Downie said he was honoured and pleased to share it with those he has worked with and said it was recognition for the Isle of Man.

"It's an Isle of Man honour," he said.

Mr Downie recently retired from 40 year service with the Coastguard - 20 years in the UK and 20 in the Isle of Man, and was awarded the Coastguard Medal 20 years ago.

He has been involved with Manx National Heritage for more than 20 years and is president of the MSPCA.

"I thoroughly enjoy my work," Mr Downie said, "work to me is a great pleasure, it is never a burden. I always get up every morning looking forward to what the day brings."

Also see:  Dr Taylor "very proud" to receive OBE

              Conservationist "overwhelmed" after receiving MBE

              Three Manx residents make New Year's Honours List