Looking Ahead
by Peter Hutchings, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust
The
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust launched its 50th Anniversary Year of
celebrations by setting a new world record for the biggest ever bird seed cake
weighing over 1.37 tonnes. Chris Packham, attending the event in his capacity as
Vice President of the Wildlife Trust and patron of the Trust’s 50th Anniversary
said, “The effort and commitment that went into this world record was amazing. I
want it to inspire people in Hampshire to support the Wildlife Trust and really
enjoy the beautiful countryside in which we live. Most importantly we want even
more youngsters to get involved as they will be the future custodians of our
local wildlife."
As a way of raising the visibility of the Wildlife Trust and to promote the message of feeding garden birds this winter, the bird seed cake was cut up into 10,000 portions and distributed free to the public at shopping centres and nature reserves across Hampshire.
To help the Trust celebrate the new World Record and the launch of their 50th Anniversary Year, award winning Hampshire brewer Bowman Ales were at the event with their brand new ale called Warbler ( 4.8% abv ), brewed specially for the Wildlife Trust. Available on draft in pubs and in bottles in shops across Hampshire, for every pint sold Bowmans will make a donation to the Wildlife Trust.
There are many ways in which you can follow the celebrations as we move into the new year. The Trust’s website www.hwt.org.uk will have full details of all the events that are taking place near you.
Something that will be of interest is the Open Gardens programme. The Wildlife Trust is coordinating a programme of open gardens throughout Spring and Summer 2011 and the launch will take place at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey on Sunday 27th March 2011. You will be able to uncover the gardens' wildlife with a day of trails, tours and fun for all ages. There will be a range of activities and a chance to find out how to transform your own garden into a wildlife haven.
The aim is to raise awareness of the Wildlife Trust, the importance of gardens as a resource for wildlife and to raise funds as part of our 50th anniversary appeal.
You can get involved by opening your own garden. Your support gives us vital funds to protect wildlife and wild places in your local area. If you are interested in raising money for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust by opening your own garden to the public, please visit our website or contact us on natalier@hwt.org.uk for full details.