Port St Mary Commissioners paint promenade benches for mental health charities

Port St Mary Commissioners have put in two benches decorated in the colours of the island charities Ed Space and Isle Listen, as a lasting reminder of the importance of mental health.

The benches were installed on the Top Promenade, overlooking Chapel Bay, on Wednesday 7 October, according to Isle of Man Today.

The project was suggested by Martin Booth, the commissioners’ foreman, together with his team. It is meant to back the work of both charities and add some colour to a stretch of the village well used by locals and visitors alike.

Jean Teare, chair of the commissioners, thanked the team for “another great initiative, especially one that both cheers up the Promenade and supports such worthwhile causes”. She said the benches were always in use, whether by people resting and taking in the view, dog walkers and friends meeting up, or picnickers.

A spokesperson for Ed Space said the charity had been “blown away” to see its colours, and that the benches could offer “a place to stop, take five minutes, have a conversation, listen, or simply sit quietly”.

Isle Listen, which supports young people, thanked the commissioners for recognising the importance of mental health. “We hope the bench will encourage many positive mindful moments,” a spokesperson said.