THE Island's local countryside management project has secured funds for a new project at Golden Hill Country Park in Freshwater.

Gift to Nature, part of the Natural Enterprise charity, has received more than £87,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The new project ­— Golden Celebrations at Golden Hill ­— is designed to breathe life back into the site through a host of environmental improvements and new heritage and creative installations.

Historians, artists and local volunteers will reveal the hidden heritage on site, and bring the information to life with new historical interpretation, wildlife trails and a brand-new family attraction.

With an interactive willow maze, encouraging discovery through activity and play, the project will enable local families to discover the origins and explore the history of the site as far back as the 1860s.

Managing director Graham Biss said: "We are thrilled to receive the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund, and confident the project will enhance an important West Wight asset.

"These exciting plans will draw a much-needed spotlight to this fascinating area."

Natural Enterprise took on the Golden Hill Country Park in 2016 as part of its Gift to Nature conservation initiative ­— improving and managing a portfolio of council owned public access sites.

Gift to Nature manages 29 sites across the Island, and each space has its own unique landscape, flora and fauna, and importance to the local community.

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