Island Roads volunteers back at Needles Old Battery

Volunteers from Island Roads returned to the Needles Old Battery for the third year running to help the National Trust with annual winter maintenance programme.

As part of its volunteering scheme, Island Roads encourages employees to take two days off each year to give their time to support local good causes.

Five members of staff picked up their brushes to help paint the Winch Chamber, Shell Storeroom, Royal Engineers Office, which now house displays about the Fort’s fascinating past. They also painted inside the Old Battery’s tunnel which leads to the Search Light room overlooking the Needles Lighthouse.

David Metcalfe, Fort Manager for the National Trust, said: “It was great to be joined by volunteers from Island Roads. Their help was invaluable because, to keep the historic site in perfect condition for the thousands of people who visit each year, the list of maintenance jobs is very long!

“We’ve built up a great relationship with Island Roads over the years, not only through the volunteering they undertake but also through our close liaison during highways schemes near National Trust properties – such as Bembridge Windmill and roads around Newtown.”