Based in Brockenhurst
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Rhinefield Probus April News
April meeting
The Verderers, Commoners and all those who are lucky enough to live in and around The New Forest agree it is a very special place and an environment well worth the protection it receives.
There are however many other natural areas in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and around the County shores that are equally precious habitats for wild creatures and these are under the dedicated care of The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT). Melissa Haworth of HIWWT came to The Rhinefield Probus this month to explain the workings and the responsibilities of this organisation. Part of the UK wide Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts umbrella, the HIWWT is autonomous but works closely with many other of the 47 Trusts around the Country.
The HIWWT spent £3.2 million last year managing their 48 nature reserves in the Hampshire and Isle of Wight area and, in addition to opening for visitors they hosted over 3,000 school children. This was achieved with the total staffing of the Trust of only 111. Their big strength however is their volunteer force of 900 who turn out to help with all manner of tasks in all weather throughout the year.
The HIWWT success stories are many and have been brought about by concentrating on acquiring sites and getting the habitats right for the wildlife to thrive. From the otter to white clawed crayfish, lapwings to water voles their strategies and policies are clearly bringing benefits which can be enjoyed by all nature lovers.
Reserves within easy reach of The New Forest are Blashford Lakes near Ringwood and the Testwood Lakes outside Totton. Both well worth a visit.
The disappointing fact however is that only 1.5% of the population of Hampshire and The Isle of Wight are members of the Trust however, the work of HIWWT so inspired Rhinefield Probus that some members immediately signed up for HIWWT membership !
Other events
The Rhinefield Probus Annual Dinner was held at the end of March at The Lord Bute Hotel in Highcliffe when members and their wives and partners enjoyed a first class evening socialising and taking part in a table quiz with champagne for the winning table and in early April members visited the Watermill Theatre at Newbury to have dinner and to see Tuxedo Junction.
