Ramsey commissioners are to support an initiative by Hospice Isle of Man to introduce ’Happy to Chat’ benches in the town.

It follows an initiative running throughout the UK to install Chat Benches to reduce loneliness. Anyone feeling lonely or disconnected is encouraged to sit on the benches and strike up a chat.

It is a very simple concept where a sign is placed on a bench or it can be distinguished by being painted a specific colour.

Typically, such benches are placed in town centres, promenades or other areas used by the community.

A letter from Hospice points out: ’Isolation and loneliness affects the young, the old, young mums, new residents and those on the periphery of society.’

The board agreed to investigate suitably located benches for use through the adoption of an appropriate colour scheme.

Chairman Andy Cowie said: ’Ramsey is already a very friendly town and some may think such benches are unnecessary, but I’d say it can’t do any harm.’