By Isle of Wight Observer
A group of New Forest volunteers have continued a tradition spanning more than 20 years, by returning to help care for Fort Victoria Country Park.
The New Forest Area Conservation Volunteers (NFACV) have travelled to the Isle of Wight every year for more than two decades, carrying out practical conservation work at sites across the Island.
This year’s visit saw the volunteers join Fort Victoria ranger, Anita Matheson, on July 15, to clear vegetation beneath a woodland viewpoint, restoring uninterrupted views across the Solent for visitors.
Anita said: “We’re extremely grateful to the New Forest Area Conservation Volunteers for their continued support of the Isle of Wight for more than 20 years.
“The volunteers have helped in different areas on the Island, but have spent lots of time at Fort Victoria over the past two decades, and their annual visits have become a valued tradition.
“The group’s dedication, over more than 20 years, is a fantastic example of how volunteers can make a real difference to our parks and open spaces.”
Julie Thomas, chair of NFACV, said the group always looked forward to its annual outing and helping to improve the country park.
Previous projects have included building steps, laying paths, and clearing vegetation where views have become obstructed.
Families can also visit Fort Victoria during the school holidays for ranger-led rock pooling and fossil hunting sessions. Led by Anita, with appearances from fossil expert Dr Martin Munt, the activities give visitors the chance to discover marine life and search for fossils along the coastline.
For information on upcoming sessions, visit iw.observer/fossil-sessions.
