Some of the Isle of Wight's beauty spots are now under new management.

The Wight Nature Fund, which for the past 31 years has looked after nature reserves around the Island, has surrendered the management of them as part of a succession plan.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWF) will take control of Alverstone Mead (which it owns) as well as Bensteads Marsh, Youngwoods Copse, Bretts Meadow and the SSSI land adjoining the cycle track.

WNF has also surrendered the lease of Copse Mead at Lake and the licence for Pelham Woods at St Lawrence back to the Isle of Wight Council.

The future management of Mill Copse at Yarmouth is under discussion.

Mary Edmunds, acting secretary of WNF, said: "The trustees have been concerned about succession and have reviewed the WNF's future as an independent organisation.

"It was felt these reserves are best managed as one.

"We thank the numerous volunteers and conservation groups that have supported us and worked with us for the past 31 years.

"We know we have all contributed to the preservation of some of the Island's countryside for the benefit of the wildlife and the many people who have visited the sites over the years."