Port St Mary Commissioners have unveiled two benches painted in island charity colours as part of an initiative to keep mental health awareness in the public eye.

The benches, painted in the colours of Ed Space and Isle Listen, were installed on Wednesday, October 7, and are situated on the Top Promenade, overlooking Chapel Bay.

The idea came from the commissioners’ foreman, Martin Booth, and his team, with the project aiming to support the work of the two charities while adding colour to a popular spot for residents and visitors.

Chair of Port St Mary Commissioners, Jean Teare, commented: ‘We would like to thank Martin and the team for another great initiative, especially one that both cheers up the Promenade and supports such worthwhile causes.

‘The benches are situated at a popular stopping place for both visitors and locals. There’s always somebody using the benches for resting and admiring the view, a meeting place for dog walkers and friends or having a picnic’.

Ed Space said a huge thank you to Port St Mary Commissioners for choosing the charity to be represented.

A spokesperson said: ‘We were blown away when we saw it painted in our Ed Space colours, alongside the bench representing Isle Listen and the important work they do supporting young people.

‘These benches are so much more than something beautiful to look at - they can become a place to stop, take five minutes, have a conversation, listen, or simply sit quietly and take some time for yourself.’

A spokesperson for Isle Listen added: ‘We are grateful to Port St Mary Commissioners for recognising the importance of mental health and representing our charity in this way. We hope the bench will encourage many positive mindful moments.’