We weren’t able to make it over the water this morning, but TV star and lover of all things wild and furry, Chris Packham was on location in Southampton ready and willing to help launch Red Squirrel Week which kicks off tomorrow.
Red Funnel have got involved with the Red Squirrel Trust and The Wight Squirrel Project in support of Red Squirrel Week 2008 which we’re told aims to promote awareness of the plight of this rare indigenous species.
As you can see from the photo, dear Chris was joined by a huge and rather fluffy red squirrel this morning at the Red Funnel terminal.
As all Islanders will be well aware, the Isle of Wight is one of the few places left in the UK which is home to the adorable red squirrels. The stretch of water between us and the mainland has managed to keep the lethal Squirrelpox virus out which is fatal to our dear red squirrels.
Chris is very keen to keep the Island a grey-squirrel free zone saying
“As the Isle of Wight is one of the few places in the UK where the red squirrel population is thriving, I’m delighted to be working with Red Funnel to promote Red Squirrel Week and raise awareness of these beautiful creatures”.
The Red Squirrel Trust needs your help – with Red Funnel. You can donate when booking ferry travel online, when purchasing Squirrel themed food and drink, and you may also be able to spot the giant Red Squirrel who will be collecting donations on Red Funnel’s Ferries. To find out more and download Red Funnel’s leaflet produced for the Red Squirrel Trust please visit www.redfunnel.co.uk/redsquirrel .
