The National Trust's efforts to protect Bermuda's open spaces has received a massive boost from the Bank of Bermuda.

The Bank's Centennial Trust handed over a cheque for $100,000 to the Trust's Open Spaces Programme.

And it was just the first instalment of a $500,000 grant to be paid over the next three years to help protect Devonshire Marsh and other Trust properties.

The cheque was presented to National Trust President Mrs. Patsy Phillips by Chairman of the Bank's Centennial Trust and Board of Directors Mr. Eldon Trimingham and Senior Vice President of Personnel at the Bank, Mr. Louis Mowbray, at Devonshire Marsh.

Mr. Trimmingham said: "The Bermuda National Trust, under the able direction of Mrs. Patsy Phillips, is one of the Island's most vital organisations.

"Since 1970, the National Trust has been dedicated to the preservation of Bermuda's historic sites and places of natural beauty.

"The Marsh is a sizeable tract of land which is the natural habitat of a variety of wildlife and flora indigenous to Bermuda.

"This Marsh, like other woodland, nature and recreational reserves in Bermuda is a very valuable and non-replenishable resource which the National Trust has helped preserve for the enjoyment and education of generations to come.

"The Bank of Bermuda, through its Centennial Trust, is committed to the future of our country and its open spaces. While controlled commercial development is a requirement for the financial wellbeing of the Island, the preservation of our natural resources is a necessity for everyone.'' Mrs. Phillips said that the National Trust's work was only possible because of the donations from the private and corporate sector. She said that the Bank of Bermuda has taken a "leadership role''.

Mrs. Phillips said: "This is not just for the benefit of Bermudians who need to find open spaces where they can get away and breath.

"It is also for visitors to the Island to appreciate. They are able to see open space and not just blocks of concrete.

"We are delighted to, once again, receive the support of the Bank of Bermuda.

The Centennial Trust served to launch our campaign and we are confident that Bermudians will continue to help our campaign.'' SAVING OPEN SPACES -- Chairman of the Bank of Bermuda's Centennial Trust and Board of Directors, Mr. Eldon Trimingham signs over a huge cheque for a huge amount of money, $100,000, to the National Trust. The signing at Devonshire Marsh, is watched by Trust President Mrs. Patsy Phillips, bank communications officer Ms Cathy Frith, manager Mr. Christian Traber and Senior Vice President Mr. Louis Mowbray.