The Manx Wildlife Trust and Manx National Heritage have decided to work together more closely.

For 10 years, MNH contracted MWT to manage the Calf of Man, a site originally owned by the English National Trust and now held in trust by MNH.

MWT and MNH now formally intend, through a Memorandum of Understanding, to collaborate and work together in other matters of the island’s environment, biodiversity and education.

Jonathan Hall, the chairman of MNH, said: ’MNH tends to be known for its built heritage and historic collections.

’In fact, our legislation is very similar in tone to that of the English National Trust when it talks about preserving the beauty of the Manx countryside.

’We are significant landowners and because we hold that land "in trust" for future generations we have to take a very long-term perspective.

’This long-term perspective means that we are well-placed to consider issues such as climate change, sustainability, biodiversity and so on.

’On the other hand large organisations that take a long-term perspective sometimes appear to move slowly.

’Working with a smaller, more nimble partner has its advantages.’

Viv Davies, the chair of MWT, said: ’Like-minded organisations such as ours can make a real difference now and long into the future, hopefully embracing other partners along the way, and moving from pockets of nature to a connected vibrant natural tapestry - a green lace to enhance all our lives.’

The signing took place with a backdrop of artworks produced by Manx based artists in the temporary exhibition space at the House of Manannan in Peel where the joint ’Art of Nature’ exhibition had been running throughout the summer.

The exhibition has now closed but the artworks are still available to view and buy up until Christmas at: manxnationalheritage.im/shop/product-category/art-of-nature-mwt-exhibition/