In March 1973, the Manx Nature Conservation Trust (which changed its name to the Manx Wildlife Trust in 2003) was formally incorporated, following a call to action to do more to protect Manx wildlife. Since then the Trust has gone from strength to strength, acquiring nature reserves, raising awareness of our natural environment and pushing government for better protection of the Island’s habitats and species. On the 20th March 2013, we will start a year of celebrations to mark this historic milestone and we would like you to be a part of it in many different ways.
Nature through the Arts – a Government House reception
To launch our anniversary year, we are having a reception at Government House, hosted by His Excellency Mr Adam Wood, celebrating nature through art and music. There will be singing by Mandy Griffin and artwork on display, as well as a raffle of an original painting donated by nature artist Dr Jeremy Paul. The reception is on Wednesday 20th March, at 6:30pm and tickets cost ?25. Commenting on the Trust’s anniversary, His Excellency said, “As Patron of the Manx Wildlife Trust, I congratulate this hard-working, local nature conservation charity on reaching its 40th Anniversary. I have spent many tranquil, uplifting hours enjoying such sights as the orchids at Close Sartfield or the terns along the Ayres. Thanks to the invaluable work carried out by the Manx Wildlife Trust, we can all hope that the Island's beautiful, natural environment will remain for future generations to enjoy.”
A Memorable Birthday
If you are an Island resident turning 40 on the 20th March 2013, let us give you a birthday present of a year’s free membership to the Trust and a bottle of bubbly. For expectant parents – if your baby is born on the 20th March 2013, we will give you a year’s free family membership, along with a bottle of bubbly!
Throughout the year, we will be encouraging you to experience nature for yourselves and do your bit, through our ‘40 Wild Things’ challenge. Over the year, tick off basking shark spotting, recycling, rockpooling and building a bird box, to name just a few. Look out for our handy events to help you along the way – for example the Spring Walk on April 3rd, 2pm, at Cooildarry. Send us your pictures of you completing the ‘Wild Things’ and you could win a prize!
To find out more about any of our events, book tickets to the reception, let us know about your birthday or your imminent arrival, please check our website (www.manxwt.org.uk), send us an email (enquiries@manxwt.org.uk) or give us a call (844432).
There are more pressures on our habitats and wildlife than ever before, but with your help and support the Trust can continue it’s work for the next forty years so (Wild) Life really does begin at 40!
Photo - Pond dipping at Silverdale – copyright Kath Smith.
