Martin Simpson on the beach with fossil hammer
Martin Simpson

Jewel of the South: Channel 5’s series delves into the lives of Isle of Wight locals and their heritage

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Walking in the footsteps of dinosaurs is on offer in the third episode of Isle of Wight: Jewel of the South – as famous fossil hunter palaeontologist Martin Simpson, is on the hunt for a prehistoric giant.  

The returning series, celebrates the breathtaking natural beauty and rich historical heritage of this enchanting Island, that sits just four miles off mainland Britain.

Following the lives of Islanders
Following the lives of residents whose families have lived here for generations – as well as newcomers to the Island, the series is an upbeat, escapist celebration of Island life – delving into the lives of those who have made this place home – while soaking up the jaw-dropping beauty of its iconic chalk white cliffs.

Calbourne Mill
In Calbourne, we meet Sally Chaucer who owns the oldest working watermill on the Island.

Recently, however, her precious home and business has become a huge millstone around her neck, since the pit wheel – a key cog in the system – shattered; With the watermill out of action, making flour has now ground to a halt, so the pressure’s on for heritage metal worker Ross Buckley to fix and refit this hefty, cast iron wheel.

Donkey Sanctuary
The Isle of Wight attracts hundreds of newcomers, such as Susan McCall, who moved from the mainland to Wroxall, to take up a new role at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary.

However, Susan won’t feel totally at home until she’s reunited with her twenty five pet sheep; after a journey of almost 150 miles by road and sea, the arrival or her much loved pets is imminent – but what will the resident donkeys make of their new neighbours?

Exploring the coast
It’s an early start for coasteering instructors Chris Mannion and Summer Tucker who are making the most of a low spring tide to recce a trail of magical caves and rocky paths around Freshwater Bay, to add to their treasure trove of hidden hotspots that they can share with intrepid tourists.

Living Larder
Just outside Shanklin, delivery day is looming for organic farmers Will and Aimee Steward, who not only have to pick enough fruit and veg to fill 300 boxes for their local customers – but Aimee also has to create and test out a new recipe using their seasonal produce, to include with every box.

Even with their kids pitching in, they’ve got a lot on their plate.  Can they deliver on time?

Where and when
Isle of Wight: Jewel of the South is on Thursdays at 8pm on Channel 5.

If you miss any episodes, you can catch up on the My5 Player.


News shared by Amanda on behalf of Channel 5. Ed