Herald - Issue 475

Page 18 • The HERALD • 5th June 2025 v SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE HERALD v Next Level Scaffolding Ash 07702 082961 Next Level Scaffolding Josh 07896 883508 ashcarroll@nextlevel-ltd.co.uk WHY CHOOSE US? With over 25 years of experience in the building trade, we offer quality workmanship, competitive pricing, and provide unparalleled customer service. We offer a complete service and can provide expertise in all aspects of the construction industry. We are fully insured and a member of the prestigious Federation of Master Builders. SERVICES PROVIDED: • Extensions and new builds • Roofing and carpentry • Renovations and remodelling • Bathroom and Kitchen installation • Landscaping and Hardscaping • Project management • Building Maintenance And many more…….. We take great pride in all of our work and strive to make your building experience hassle free and enjoyable. Let us make your building dreams a reality and experience the difference with M G Webber Building and Construction Limited. Mike 07554 007203 • Mgwebber44@gmail.com Whether new to driving or wanting to get back on the road we can help Automatic Driving Instruction Grade A Instructor with over 20 years experience Specialist in nervous and anxious pupils www.learn-2-drive.org.uk • Call 07796795028 Learn2Drive Artist Raises Funds For Wildlife Through Nationwide Art Project A nationwide art initiative led by Hampshire-based artist Cy Baker has raised an impressive £8,511 so far, with proceeds directly supporting nature recovery e orts at Wildlife Trusts across the UK, including Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. Cy, who lives in Netley, created a unique collection of detailed pen-and-ink drawings inspired by 53 Wildlife Trust nature reserves he visited across the UK. ese include ve sites in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight: Copythorne Common, Alverstone Mead, St Catherine’s Hill, Deacon Hill, and Swanwick Lakes. Partnering with e Wildlife Trusts, Cy used his intricate artwork and accompanying detailed diary entries to raise awareness of British wildlife. e stunning collection captures the sights and sounds of each reserve, o ering a powerful and personal celebration of UK wildlife and habitats. Cy said: “Despite so much nature loss in the UK, much remains, particularly on The Wildlife Trust reserves. I’m over the moon to share that with people through my art and to help in some small way. All the pieces completed for this project only show the habitats and species that squirrel, a regular visitor to Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve. e pieces were auctioned on 24th April, drawing enthusiastic bids from both nature lovers and art collectors. All 53 sketches created during Cy’s visits to the reserves were sold, with just two original artworks still available for purchase. e project is on track to raise a total of £13,000 for e Wildlife Trusts. Cy adds: “I’m absolutely delighted with the response to the auction. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that these pieces - which reflect what I actually saw at each site - will now help fund the protection of those same places. Despite the challenges our wildlife faces, there is still so much beauty out there, and I wanted to shine a light on that.” Elenya Lendon, Marketing and Communications Manager at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust added: “Cy’s artistic talent and his deep connection to Hampshire’s landscapes have provided a unique way to raise both awareness and funds for conservation. The auction’s success highlights the power of community and creativity in driving action to protect local wildlife. We are thrilled with the response and grateful for the funds raised, which will directly support The Wildlife Trusts’ mission to safeguard these irreplaceable habitats.” For more information about the auction please visit: wildlifetrusts.org/cy-baker Cy Baker drawing red squirrel at Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve I have seen on my visits, so the artworks really are a reflection of what people might experience if they visit these special places.” e collection includes original artworks and sketches featuring species such as the iconic red Celebrating Rural Champions: Nominations Open For The 2025 New Forest National Park Awards The New Forest National Park Authority and the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) have launched their annual awards, celebrating the remarkable individuals and organisations making a di erence across the Forest. The New Forest National Park Awards, now in their 12th year, recognise outstanding contributions to the environment, rural economy and local communities in and around the National Park. Winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony and drinks reception at the New Forest and Hampshire County Show on 30th July. e event is supported by Moore Barlow and the New Forest Agricultural Show Society. is year, as the New Forest National Park marks its 20th anniversary, a new award – Commoning Champion – has been introduced to recognise individuals playing a vital role in sustaining this unique practice which helps maintain the Forest’s landscape and biodiversity. Nominations are now open for the following categories: • Sustainability Champion • Young Farmer (aged 35 and under) • Best Supporter of Local Produce • Young Environmental Champion (aged 25 and under) • Farming and Nature Champion • Commoning Champion (new for 2025) Individuals, businesses and organisations can nominate themselves or be nominated by others. All nominees must live, work or operate within the New Forest Awards area. Nominations close on Sunday 8th June. Full criteria and application forms are available at www. newforestnpa.gov.uk/newforestawards

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTIyNzI=