A small wood is being planted in the west of the Isle of Man thanks to a Manx Gas environmental initiative. 

Last year, the company promised customers it would work with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to plant a tree for every high efficiency boiler that was sold. The 440 broad leaf trees are now being planted by forestry department staff near the village of Glenmaye on an acre of land owned by Manx Gas.  

The project is part of DAFF's 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.  

Peter Willamson, DAFF Senior Forester said: "There is currently no woodland area near Glenmaye so these trees will make a valuable contribution to its visual appearance. 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."  

Alan Bates, Managing Director of Manx Gas, said: "At Manx Gas, we believe in our responsibility to the Isle of Man community and to the environment in which we all live. We would like to thank DAFF for working with us on this project and we hope to work on similar schemes in the future if suitable land is available".  

Alpha condensing boilers save at least 15% more fuel than conventional boilers and reduce carbon emissions by almost a ton each year. They also reduce customers heating bills by about a third.  

"We're delighted by the number of Alpha boilers which have been sold as it's a clear indication that our customers recognise the importance of reducing their environmental footprint by using energy efficient appliances."  

Picture By Mike Proudfoot- Isle of Man Newspaper