The Isle of Man Bank is marking its 150th anniversary by carrying out improvements to a popular beauty spot.

Hundreds of bank colleagues, their families and customers will plant trees, construct picnic tables and benches and create a nature trail at Ballaugh Forest on Saturday 19th September.

David Cretney MLC, Member of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture responsible for Forestry, said the 140-hectare mixed species forest had existed since 1959 but Phytophthora ramorum disease had led to the need to fell all larch trees and the bank’s support would breathe new life into it.

‘The forest is a lovely spot and offers good access and it will be even more of a fantastic amenity once the work is complete,’ Mr Cretney said.

Native broadleaved trees will be planted near the picturesque pond area.

Steve Prescott, of Manx Native Trees, is providing most of the trees, although DEFA is supplying 300 ash trees.

DEFA's sawmill is providing sawn timber originating from the forest, which bank staff and customers will use to construct benches and picnic tables.

They will create a nature path, with stopping off points of interest marked by information boards, after receiving expert advice from Andree Dubbledam, from Wildflowers of Mann and the Manx Wildlife Trust.

The bank has commissioned local artist Nick Barlow to craft a sculpture of a raven from timber from the forest and this will be unveiled on the day. The bird has historic significance in the area, with the nearby Ravensdale river and earlier glen giving name to the former castle hotel and the current pub.

Bill Shimmins Managing Director of the Isle of Man Bank, said: ‘We are extremely proud to be celebrating our 150th year serving the Island. As a community bank, it is befitting to celebrate this significant milestone while giving back to our people and our landscape in way that will benefit the Isle of Man in the years to come. We look forward to spending the day with our customers and members of the public alike in what will be a fun and rewarding occasion.’

Mr Cretney said: ‘The Isle of Man Bank has been a symbol of permanence for 150 years and it’s fitting that it’s celebrating this significant anniversary by creating something that will stand solid and benefit generations to come.’