The Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust is marking its 20th anniversary with a special programme of events for Red Squirrel Week, running from Sunday (5th October) through to Sunday 12th October.
All celebrations will take place in the Trust’s private woodland, which was purchased last year thanks to public donations and the fundraising efforts of Atlantic rower Simon Howes.
Each event includes refreshments and a guided tour of the woodland, offering a rare opportunity to explore the site. Visitors are reminded that the woodland is undeveloped, with no constructed paths, so sturdy footwear and good mobility are essential.
As part of the milestone celebrations, the Trust is appealing for help to transform the woodland into a long-term education facility.
They are seeking the donation of a recycled cabin to serve as a base, as well as tools to help manage the site. The initiative will support students studying ecology and community groups interested in learning more about woodland habitats.
The full programme of events is as follows:
- Tuesday 7th October: A launch event with trustees, volunteers and Simon Howes officially opening Red Squirrel Week.
- Wednesday 8th October: A dedicated Business Day for existing and prospective supporters. The Trust is encouraging locals to look out for its Business Supporter Kitemark when shopping or using services across the Isle of Wight. Thanks have also been extended to Island Roads volunteers for their work in preparing the woodland.
- Thursday 9th October: Education Day, welcoming schools, colleges and community groups to learn about the habitat and the red squirrels it supports. Participation enquiries should be directed to Helen at the Trust.
- Friday 10th October: Supporters’ Day, inviting Friends of the Red Squirrel and other donors to enjoy the woodland. Guests are welcome with a suggested donation.
- Saturday 11th October: Volunteer Day, providing a chance to meet the team and sign up to help. Anyone with time, practical skills or specialist knowledge is encouraged to get involved.
- Sunday 12th October: Monitoring Day, when experts will record the woodland’s rich biodiversity, including its varied flora and fauna.
For ongoing updates on the restoration of the woodland and project developments, visit: www.iowredsquirreltrust.co.uk/news.
