THE Manx language is alive and well - despite recent reports to the contrary.

The language is included on a new list of endangered forms of communication from around the world which has been reported on by a number of news organisations.

A database compiled by researchers at the University of Cambridge said 21 spoken traditions are at risk of becoming extinct in the United Kingdom.

But it seems the researchers are certainly not aware of the true picture when it comes to Manx.

Manx language officer Adrian Cain said: "Manx Gaelic far from being dead is doing very well in the Isle of Man. There is a Manx Gaelic Primary school (Bunscoill Ghaelgagh) and over 1,000 other children learn some Manx in schools.

"The adult language sector is thriving and Manx is a very visible sign of the Island's culture. The Manx people and its government can be proud of its support for the language and the contribution this has made to linguistic diversity.

"The idea Manx is dead is not true."

It seems two or three times a year studies - or news articles - report the language is extinct or on the verge of extinction.

But with the children at Bunscoill Ghaelgagh being taught exclusively in the language - and the interest from adults too - reports of its death have been greatly exaggerated.