An acre of land on the west coast of the Island is to be planted with 440 broad-leaved trees, in an environmental initiative by Manx Gas.

Last year the company promised customers it would work with the forestry division to plant a tree for every high efficiency boiler that was sold, and they are now being planted near Glenmaye on land owned by Manx Gas.

The project is part of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries' Small Woods Scheme which aims to enhance the Island’s natural landscape. The trees being planted include sycamore, crab apple, wild cherry, elder, ash and sessile oak.

Senior Forester for Daff, Peter Williamson said: 'There is currently no woodland in this part of Glenmaye so these trees will make a valuable contribution to the landscape. The Small Wood Scheme has been in existence for 25 years and it’s been supported mainly by individuals so it’s great to see local companies getting involved.'