It was with regret and thanks that His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor accepted the resignation of William Daniel Christian of Ballakeigh Farm as Captain of the Parish of Bride. William was in his 44th year as Captain having been appointed in 1981 . He had succeeded his father, also William Daniel Christian, who had been appointed Captain in 1971. The family have farmed Ballakeigh for over 500 years and the farm is now run by William’s son, Dan, and daughter, Kiree. William has two other daughters, Breeshey and Emma, well known for her singing. The family run a herd of Montbeliarde cattle, a breed that can be both a diary and beef , renowned for their tough feet and strong udders. They are described as being ‘red pied’ which in layman’s’ terms are brown and white cattle with white faces. The breed originates from France. In his younger days William was a member of the Manx Amateur Athletic Club specialising in long distance track running. Fellow Captain Peter Kelly of Onchan was also a member of MAAC at the same time but was a sprinter taking part in the 100 yards and 4 x110 yards relay.
