Land purchase preserves island's 'unspoilt inlet'

The area is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

A "rare and precious" landscape on the Isle of Wight will be preserved for future generations after it was acquired by a wildlife charity.

King's Quay - formally known as Palmers Farm - has been described as the island's "last unspoilt inlet on the Solent".

It has been bought by the James Tuttiett Charitable Trust (JTCT), which has partnered with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust to protect it.

JTCT said the purchase would provide "a sanctuary for wildlife and a legacy of conservation".

The inlet, between the villages of Fishbourne and East Cowes, includes freshwater swamp, reedbed, salt marsh and mudflat habitats, and is surrounded by ancient woodland.

Wildlife habitats include freshwater, swamps, reedbeds, salt marshes and mudflats

It is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a RAMSAR site - a wetland of international significance.

James Tuttiett of JTCT said: "King's Quay is a truly special place and we are honoured to be playing a role in preserving its unique natural beauty and ecological importance.

"By partnering with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, we can ensure this vital habitat thrives for many generations to come, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and a legacy of conservation."

Jamie Marsh of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust said: "King's Quay is a rare and precious haven for wildlife.

"Protecting and restoring key ecosystems such as this is a core part of our Wilder 2030 strategy, for a richer, more biodiverse future for Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, and beyond."