notebook
Family Coppicing in Borthwood
Become a ranger for the day and have a go at coppicing some of the hazel that grows within the ancient woods of Borthwood Copse , near Winford . You might even spot a red squirrel as you work ! Please wear old clothing and bring gardening gloves and a packed lunch . No dogs allowed . Booking is essential , just call 01983 741020 . Meet in the Parish Council car park , the postcode of which is PO36 0LD .
Birdwatching at Newtown
Spirit of the Orient
Visit Robin Hill during February half term ( 17th - 26th February ) for the annual ‘ Spirit of the Orient ’ event . It ’ s a stunning Oriental-themed spectacle of light , colour , sound and entertainment , marking the coming of the Chinese New Year .
Sandman Snowman
The annual competition to make Snowmen or Sandmen will be taking place on Small Hope Beach , Shanklin on Sunday 19th February 2017 at 11am . Taking place no matter what the weather , all the children need to bring is buckets , spades and warm clothes . Carrots , coal and hot chocolate are all supplied ! There is a suggested donation towards Gift To Nature of £ 2 . For more details visit the website www . gifttonature . org . uk / sandmansnowman .
Visitors to the electric woods can experience the magical illuminated woodland of the park , themed with a far eastern twist , so they can enjoy the spirit of one of the world ’ s most popular celebrations .
Taking place on Sunday 22nd January at 10am , is the opportunity to learn all about birds , from spotting them to song identification , and discovering the winter migrants of Newtown . This is ideal for those who are new to bird watching . If you have binoculars bring them and wear suitable clothing . Donations are welcome (£ 3 is the suggested amount ). Meet at Newtown Visitor Point , PO30 4PA . Guide dogs only .
For more information call 01983 741020 .
Guided Fossil Walk
Walk on Cretaceous rocks along Yaverland beach with a guide from Dinosaur Isle . On Saturday 7th January explore the sand for a variety of fossils from the time of the dinosaurs . Starting at Dinosaur Isle in Sandown , the journey takes up to two hours , and begins at 10.30am . Contact 01983 404344 for more details . www . visitilife . com 13