The Newport Riverfest on Saturday 15th May 2010 will celebrate the heritage, community, businesses and wildlife associated with the historic Medina River.

It will be a fun family event focusing on the river. The event is being organised by the Footprint Trust, a local educational charity.

The event aims to achieve the following;

· Raise awareness of the environmental and leisure benefits of the water environment

· Promote sustainable water use and conservation of wetland habitats

· To promote organisations and businesses with an interest in the River Medina

Riverfest will be free to the public, thanks to support from Newport Parish Council, the Environment Agency and sponsorship from the Newport Beacon and other businesses.

The event has been made possible by the Isle of Wight Council, who have given free use of Newport historic working Quay.

Traditional Victorian funfair stalls will be their including a coconut shy, archery and swinging boats. The IW Council’s Play Rangers will be organising play activities with a watery theme.

One the Riverfest’s biggest supporters is Matt O’Crowley skipper of the world’s smallest commercial paddle steamer PS Monarch. He is arranging for boats of all shapes, ages and sizes to form a flotilla, that will arrive at noon. The Monarch will also be offering trips along the river, as will other boats and crafts.

The Medina Valley Centre’s Eco-Challenger will be on show – giving children the chance of making toys powered by the sun. A variety of angling clubs charities associated with the river and the wider community will be at the event. The Wight Pirates re-enactors will be invading the Riverfest – so watch out!

Businesses specialising in local food and crafts will be at the Riverfest, including Colin Horn who makes garden furniture from railway sleepers and top quality bird boxes. Visitors will also have the opportunity of seeing a wood being worked in a traditional way.

Wildlife organisations will be on hand to talk about the Island’s important habitats. ‘Gift To Nature’ will be hosting a couple of walks linked to the heritage of the Quay area. The Environment Agency staff will be on hand to talk about their work in flood defence and management. Experts from the Agency will be showing the important creatures of the deep that frequent the river.

The Footprint Trust is keen to promote wise use of water and will be giving away free water saving devices and guidance on how to reduce water consumption. Local business Engenius will be on hand to explain rainwater harvesting systems.

Families will have the opportunity to find about the new ‘Energetic’ training scheme, which will help them save £100 on their fuel bills.

The organisers are interested in hearing from other businesses and organisations that might wish to attend. They can contact the Footprint Trust on 82-22-82.

‘This year’s event will have a greater diversity of stalls and activities than in previous years. We are hoping to make Riverfest a great annual event – small, fun and informative!’ Said Ray Harrington-Vail of the Footprint Trust.