The UK’s Big National Treasure Turns 100… But Who’s Ours?

The UK’s biggest national treasure is celebrating his 100th birthday today.

A full century of being universally adored, endlessly quoted, and somehow still managing to be on everyone’s ‘favourite ever’ list. Fair play, Sir David Attenborough.

It got us thinking down at Mongoose HQ this Friday afternoon… who are the Isle of Man’s national treasures?

It’s a funny old title really.

‘National treasure’ isn’t something you can apply with a straight face and a clipboard. It’s more of a vibe than a definition.

Warmth, recognition, longevity… and probably someone who’s been brilliant for so long we’ve all just collectively agreed not to argue about it.

If we had to throw a few names into the mix though, here’s where we landed:

Charles Guard MBE

Historian, filmmaker, and full-time Manx knowledge vault.

His YouTube deep dives into island history are proper gold dust, and he’s never shy of pointing out when things could be better, from the horse trams to Douglas itself.

He’s also delivered some absolute radio gold, including that memorable Manx Radio finance interview with Paul Moulton. If you haven’t seen it, please click HERE.

A man who cares loudly, and we love that.

Dot Tilbury MBE

An absolute legend.

From cycling success to still shaping the next generation of Manx riders, Dot is everywhere in the best possible way.

Always active, always involved, and always pushing things forward. A true island inspiration. And the best MC at Marown Parish Day.

Milky Quayle

It’s hard to find anyone with a bad word to say about Milky, and we’ve tried.

Former TT racer, now helping develop the next generation, and also quietly serving excellent coffee at Paramount City. One chat with him and your day’s instantly better.

Derry Kissack MBE

The voice, the energy, the Purple Helmets.

A man who has entertained crowds around the world at speeds ‘aapproaching 100mph’ and built a legacy of pure Manx showmanship. A true one-off.

Roy Moore

‘Over to Roy Moore at Ramsey Hairpin…’

A staple of TT commentary since 1984 and a voice woven into island racing history. Recently retired, but very much part of the fabric of the Mountain Course forever.

So there we are. Five very different personalities, all loved in their own way.

But we’re not settling this ourselves… who would you name as the Isle of Man’s national treasure? Get in touch – hello@gef.im