Former MHK and prominent member of music community dies

Geoff Corkish served in Tynwald between 2006 and 2018

A former MHK, MLC and prominent member of the Island's music community has died.

Geoff Corkish MBE was elected to represent the constituency of Douglas West in 2006, and was re-elected in 2011 before joining the Legislative Council in 2013.

Prior to his career in politics, he was a long-serving spokesperson for the Steam Packet Company.

Also known for his work in the arts, he won the Cleveland Medal in 1983, was the director of the Festival of Choirs, a former chair of the Isle of Man Arts Council and vice-chair of Culture Vannin.

John Moss has been looking back at his life:

Tributes have been paid to the former politician.

His political colleague Juan Watterson SHK, who was first elected in the same year as Mr Corkish, took to social media to share his memories of working with him:

Meanwhile, the Arts Council has also paid tribute to him, saying his dedication to the arts was 'unwavering:

Breesha Maddrell is Director of Culture Vannin. She's shared a tribute to him, saying: "Sending sincere condolences to Geoff’s family and close friends.

"Best wishes and fond memories of a complete gentleman who had music and laughter and kindness in abundance - from me personally as well as from all at Culture Vannin."

Taking to Facebook, Manx Utilities also paid its respects to its former vice-chair, describing his death as 'truly sad'.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet says 'his positivity and passion for the Island and its ferry company was unparalleled':