This is the only way we can foster the next generation of naturalists to safeguard our most-loved wildlife and wild places.

But sometimes children can inspire us too.

For his 4th birthday party, local Hampshire boy Jonathan (pictured, right) asked for donations to the Wildlife Trust instead of traditional toys and gifts.

He’s a young nature enthusiast, having been coming to our Wildlife Tots group at Testwood Lakes nature reserve for several years. However he was shocked and inspired by the recent Blue Planet II TV series, and the impact of plastic pollution upon wildlife around the world.

As a result he asked that friends and family instead donate to a cause that helps local wildlife and reduces the impact of plastics in our environment, our Secrets of the Solent project.

We’re very grateful for the generosity of Jonathan’s friends and family, but also humbled by Jonathan’s passion for the world around him and the action he’s taking to protect it.

All donations to our work protecting local wildlife and wild places are gratefully received – find out more about how you can support our work here.