The Lieutenant Governor, Sir Richard Gozney, has accepted an invitation to become the first patron of the charity Beach Buddies during his term of office in the Isle of Man.

Beach Buddies has described the appointment as “another major step forward” for the charity, which was first registered in 2014.
Founder Bill Dale said, “I met Sir Richard at a gathering of the local media recently at Government House and he had clearly done his homework as he knew a great deal about what Beach Buddies has done in recent years.

“I explained that we had  a number of new initiatives in the pipeline, including an education programme in all schools and our plans to expand what we do to include glens, plantations and footpaths all over the Island.

“He said he would be very pleased to help in any way he could to promote Beach Buddies, so we approached him to ask if he would be our patron.

“He is well known as someone who cares about the environment and wildlife, and we were delighted when he accepted the invitation. We believe his support for Beach Buddies will be a major benefit for us in the coming years.”

Sir Richard said,  “As a newcomer I’ve been struck by Beach Buddies’ litter bins: well marked, ample and pretty well used, it seems. Hats off to Bill Dale and his supporters.”

Photo - Sir Richard Gozney with (from left) Beach Buddies founder Bill Dale,  chairman Brian Pimm-Smith and treasurer Mike Brew.