The Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust’s “Return of the Reds” online charity auction has raised £4,053 in bids in its first four days, which is well on its way to 50% of its ambitious £10,000 goal.
With bidding closing at 8pm on Sunday 8th November 2026, the Trust is calling on red squirrel fans across the Island and the UK to help it reach the finish line.
A flying start The auction got off to a flying start, with bids totalling £2,250 on the very first day alone, a quarter of the target in just 24 hours. By the end of day three, the total had climbed to £3,438.
It is the Trust’s first Jumblebee auction in a couple of years, and its goal is its most audacious yet. The last Jumblebee auction, in November 2024, was the Trust’s biggest to date, raising £6,128.
Red squirrel looking out of feeder in Howes Wood
This year, the Trust hopes to go further still.
Hundreds of lots, from £4 to once-in-a-lifetime experiences The auction is packed with generous donations from Island businesses, makers and supporters, many of which would make perfect Christmas gifts or treats to look forward to in 2027.
There is something for every budget.
Starting bids begin at just £4, for a gorgeous handmade dinosaur bandana bib from Little Wights Clothing (Lot 68).
Highlights still waiting for a first bid Highlights still waiting for their first bid include:
A two-night family break for up to six at Nettlecombe Farm, Whitwell, including the farm’s daily animal feeding tour (Lot 3)
“Priory Bay Paddlers”, a signed, limited edition framed aerial print by Alfie in the Air (Lot 299)
Princess, a red squirrel plush dressed as a bride, with a costume handmade by volunteer Debbie Hart (Lot 194)
A pink crystal pendant and stud earring set from Serendipity Diamonds (Lot 141)
A handmade silver leaf pendant by Bonita Bay (Lot 195)
Sterling silver starfish earrings, handmade and donated by Thomas P Cochran (Lot 71)
A collectable Steiff squirrel (Lot 26)
Vouchers and postage There are also more than 40 vouchers for Island restaurants, pubs, cafes, attractions and experiences. These can be emailed or posted, ready to be tucked away for your next visit to the Island – perfect for Islanders and holiday makers alike.
Bidders do not need to live on the Isle of Wight to take part. Many lots can be posted, and the Trust asks bidders to get in touch for a postage quote before bidding, so they can include it in their budget.
Every bid helps protect Howes Wood and grow the next generation of conservationists Money raised will help the Trust continue its conservation work at Howes Wood, the woodland it bought for the Island’s red squirrels.
Howes Wood was opened in October 2024 by Simon Howes, whose remarkable solo row across the Pacific raised a huge sum for the Trust. Together with funds already set aside for the purpose, his fundraising made the purchase possible. This year, thanks to the Trust’s consistent work managing and caring for the wood, there has been growing evidence of increased numbers of red squirrels returning to it.
Funds will also help the Trust develop its education work. During Red Squirrel Awareness Week this year, Howes Wood hosted the first meeting of the Red Tail Rangers, the Trust’s new children’s conservation club. The Trust hopes to welcome the Rangers back to the woods soon, along with other groups in the future.
There is more to come. Something rather special will launch early next year that will give people the chance to become more closely involved with Howes Wood. Watch this space!
Every bid, every share and every voucher bought makes a real difference Beth Greaves-Jones, of the Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust, said,
“We have been absolutely blown away by the response in the first few days of the auction. To pass a third of our target so quickly is a wonderful reminder of just how much people care about our red squirrels.
“The Isle of Wight is one of the last places in southern England where red squirrels still thrive, and we can only protect them with the help of the public. We are committed to working hand in hand with our supporters, local businesses and communities to grow the Trust into an even stronger position, so that our reds are protected for generations to come.
“Whether you are on the Island or a red squirrel fan elsewhere in the UK, every bid, every share and every voucher bought makes a real difference. Please help us reach our £10,000 goal.”
Nettlecombe Farm
How to bid The Return of the Reds 2026 auction is open now and closes at 8pm on Sunday 8th November.
