A trio of Isle of Wight organisations have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to nature and sustainability at the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust’s Wilder Awards 2025.
The Garlic Farm in Newchurch, Warren Farm in Totland, and the Southern Co-op’s support for a local wildlife project were among this year’s winners and commendations.
The awards were presented during the Trust’s Wilder Conference at The Point Theatre in Eastleigh on Thursday (23rd October), with wildlife TV presenter Megan McCubbin hosting the ceremony.
The Garlic Farm won the Food and Farming with Nature Award for its innovative wastewater treatment system, which uses a series of wetland pools to purify and recycle water from its restaurant, shop, and holiday lets. The clean water is then used to irrigate garlic crops, creating both a thriving wetland habitat and a sustainable farming method. The Newchurch-based farm also shares its techniques with visitors through guided tours and has earned B Corp certification for its environmental and ethical commitments.
Warren Farm in Totland received a commendation for its work in sustainable livestock farming and habitat restoration. Run by James Osman and Rebecca Hesketh, the 300-acre farm supports biodiversity through traditional grazing practices, elimination of artificial chemicals, and conservation work on sites such as Headon Warren and Ningwood Common. Their use of ‘no-fence’ virtual grazing technology and public engagement via QR-code maps has been praised for balancing nature recovery with visitor access.
Southern Co-op, based in Portsmouth, received the Wilder Business Award and was recognised for backing the Wilder Isle of Wight Community Project. Their ongoing support helps island residents connect with nature and take local action for wildlife. The company has been a long-term advocate of the Trust’s mission to create greener, healthier neighbourhoods.
Megan McCubbin, President of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, has said:
“I love the people in this area that are making a difference. There are some absolute gems of humanity that can be found across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
“People who go above and beyond to protect what we collectively love, and they do so with such vigour and passion, and inspire so many others.”
This year’s conference also marked the launch of the Trust’s refreshed ‘Wilder 2030’ strategy, which aims to accelerate nature recovery and empower communities over the next 5 years.
More information is available at www.hiwwt.org.uk/wilder-conference.
