By Isle of Wight Observer
Island countryside charity Gift to Nature has published a new Trail Guide Pack, with maps and illustrations by local artist Alan Rowe.
The charity manages most of the Isle of Wight Council’s nature reserves and countryside areas, and the new publication features many popular Isle of Wight Council-owned landscapes.
Areas covered include Brading Down, Sibden Hill, Afton Marsh, Golden Hill Country Park, Bonchurch Landslip, Pig Leg Lane and many more.
With activities, suggested walks, wildlife tips and brand-new maps of the areas; the packs are intended to encourage everyone to explore and enjoy some of the Isle of Wight’s most popular local green areas.
Sales of the new pack will also raise funds to go directly towards managing the wildlife and nature sites.
Cabinet member for environment and heritage, councillor John Hobart, went to the launch of the Trail Guide and the new Gift to Nature Supporters Scheme. He said: “I am delighted to see this new fund raising initiative, especially with such an attractive and informative pack.
“The council owns countryside across the island that is a really important part of life for locals and visitors alike.
“The Gift to Nature team works hard on our behalf keeping these well-loved areas safe and free for everyone to use – but they need to raise the funds to do so, and this is a great way forward.”
Gift to Nature fundraising co-ordinator Vanessa Langley said: “We look after some of the most beautiful landscapes on the Isle of Wight on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council, town and parish councils, and more.
“We know that countryside and wildlife is something that people on the island really value – and with help from our volunteers and supporters we can raise the funds to keep these wonderful green places open for everyone.”
