This essay competition was established in memory of George Sayle Johnson Esquire, a past President of The Isle of Man Law Society, with the object of encouraging the study of law.

An essay topic is set by the First Deemster who also forms the judging panel along with the Second Deemster, the Attorney General, the High Bailiff and the Vicar General. On occasion the award has not been presented if the panel decided the essays submitted did not warrant the prize.

2024 – Andrew Langan-Newton

2023 – Lydia Campbell

2022 – Eve Aycock

2021 – Emily Johnson 

2020 – Adam Killip 

2019 – Emily Johnson

2018 – Andrew Newton

2017 – Hazel Smith 

2015 – Kevin O Loughlin

2014 – Andrew Newton

2013 – David Clegg

2012 – Mark Emery

2011 – John Aycock

2010 –  Rachel Jepson

2009 – Paul Rodgers 

2008 – Christopher Brooks

2004 – Melissa Warrilow (now Hedqvist)