The newly-formed Harbour Farm Nature Group has marked its launch as a Community Interest Company with a £1,141 donation from the Lane End Co-op Welcome store in Bembridge.
The donation was raised through sales of the popular Bembridge 2025 Community Calendar, which is produced annually by Steve Warburton.
Steve, a member of the Warburton family who run the Lane End store, recently presented the cheque at the group’s first official meeting.
Each year, the calendar showcases photographs submitted by local residents. The 2025 edition focused on the theme of Bembridge beaches, capturing both scenic beauty and the creative talents of the community.
The Harbour Farm Nature Group plans to use the donation to support its mission of improving access to nature around the Harbour Farm area. Their initial focus will be on creating key viewing points along a recently reopened footpath, which has been re-routed to protect a nearby lagoon.
Expert environmentalists are working with the group to ensure the viewing points enhance views of local marshland wildlife without causing ecological harm.
Andrew Holman, Chair of the Harbour Farm Nature Group, has said:
“We are extremely grateful to both Steve at the Lane End Welcome store for nominating us as this year’s recipients of the calendar proceeds as well, of course, to the marvellously generous people of Bembridge for buying this beautiful calendar.
“This money starts us off on our path of seeking greater access to nature locally and all the well-known benefits that flow from that. And as ever, ensuring it is all done in an environmentally sensitive manner.”
Long-term plans include the development of a full nature trail, bird hides and a visitor centre at the derelict Harbour Farm site off Embankment Road.
To learn more about the group, email [email protected] or visit the Facebook page ‘Harbour Farm Nature Walk Action Group’.
Locals can also meet the team and view plans at Bembridge Parish Council’s Community Groups’ Day at the Village Hall on Saturday 31st May.
Great calendar well done.