By Isle of Wight Observer
Vectis Astronomical Society will be able to bring the stars closer to Islanders after receiving a £3,172 grant from WightAID to purchase a specialist camera for its outreach work.
The society, which runs public sessions at its observatory and visits schools, clubs and local events, says the new equipment will allow images of celestial objects to be captured that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
The society’s grant was one of nine totalling £7,242.53 awarded by WightAID during its July and September rounds. The next largest grant, at £589, supported Corf Scout Camp at Porchfield, where climbing and abseiling activities are provided for young people aged four to 25. The money will go towards new harnesses and equipment.
Seven further grants were awarded: St Saviour’s Catholic Primary School £480.93; Ventnor School of Mosaics £500; Dementia Carers Friendship Group £500; Oakfield Youth FC £500; The Bay CE School secondary site £500; Ventnor Carnival £500; and Medina College £500.
WightAID founder, Geoff Underwood, said the variety of groups supported “is incredible… from dementia groups to schools and youth clubs, WightAID is continuing to make a big difference.”
For more information or to donate visit iw.observer/wightaid.
Isle of Wight Observer