Isle of Man Bank staff donned their wellies last week to carry out further enhancements to a beauty spot.
Employees and customers spent a successful day planting trees at Ballaugh Forest in September as part of the bank’s 150th anniversary celebrations. They also unveiled a specially commissioned sculpture of a raven by artist Nick Barlow.
Since then, teams of staff have returned to the forest to plant more trees, build picnic tables and benches, erect nature trail signage and way markers and clear paths.
The bank, which opened in 1865, says the work will be a lasting legacy of its anniversary.
David Cretney MLC, Member of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) responsible for Forestry, took part in the planting.
He said the bank’s project had enhanced the 140-hectare forest, which had lost larch trees to disease.
‘The work of bank staff and customers has greatly improved the amenities in the forest and made it even more attractive to visit,’ said Mr Cretney.
Bill Shimmins, Managing Director of the Isle of Man Bank, said:
‘The community day was a great success, with colleagues and customers and their families enjoying a range of activities including tree planting and pond dipping. The sunny weather added to the beautiful surroundings of Ballaugh plantation.
‘The expert assistance provided by the team from DEFA helped the bank create a legacy which will hopefully be enjoyed by the community for many years to come. Teams of colleagues from the bank are continuing with path construction and tree planting to build on the work already achieved.’
