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Newport's Naturezones Celebrating 15 Years Of Natural History And Science Education

Left to right: Beatrice Lihou, David Lihou, Angela Hewitt, Laura Mcburnie, Emma Bartlet, Georgia Watts.

A nature reserve in Newport is celebrating 15 years of working with community groups on the Isle of Wight.

Naturezones, located on Blackwater's Birchmore Lane, opened its 10-acre reserve — a field study centre for the Island — to the public on October 27, 2007 and has been run by volunteers since.

Celebrations commence with a winter competition for primary school children to write about a British native animal of their choice.

The deadline for entries is December 14, with full details available on the Naturezones website.


The best entries submitted by participating schools will be displayed in the Naturezones pavilion.

Winning entrants will receive a free family visit to the site, including a cream tea or cake.

Founder Trustee Angela Hewitt said:

"it's hard to believe we have been providing wildlife education to the Island community for 15 years.

"In that time we have developed an amazing wildlife education centre for schools, community groups and individuals to explore and learn about the science of nature and how to protect the natural environment.

"In the run up to our 15 year celebrations, Naturezones is launching a series of competitions for primary school children."

Among Naturezones' goals for 2023 is an aim to provide free health and well-being visits to families that live in areas of deprivation.

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