It all began with Squirrel Nutkin or maybe it was The Tufty Club, I can't quite recall but one thing is for sure, for as long as I can remember red squirrels have held a special place in my heart.

That is why I have made a commitment to help IOWRST to raise the money they need to create a sanctuary for these gorgeous indigenous creatures of ours.

The Isle of Wight is an important strong hold for the UK's red squirrels and as such it is crucial that we support their safety and well being here to the best of our ability.

One way that The IOWRST aims to do this is to raise enough funds to purchase a piece of woodland for the protection and observation of and education on red squirrels.

I hope that you will support me in supporting them in protecting these glorious creatures and preserving their presence here both for them as a species and for the delight of our children and our children's children.