Live music will rustle summer blooms in Vernon Square, a wildlife haven in the heart of Ryde, this Saturday (1st July) at 2pm.

Isle of Wight musicians including the Rug Band and Steve Love will play at the Square’s Conservation Society summer garden party, aimed at raising funds for the green oasis.

Visitors to the event can also enjoy Prosecco and Pimms, tea, coffee, home-made cakes, a raffle, sales of plants and gardenalia and pre-loved toys.

All proceeds will help the Society maintain the Square, which is open to everyone but cared for entirely by volunteers.

Once derelict, the land was rescued by local campaigners, who turned it into the thriving garden it is today. The Square was officially opened by the late environmentalist David Bellamy in 1989.

Entrance to Saturday’ garden party is £2 (free for Conservation Society members).

The Square is a dog-free zone, apart from Guide and Assistance dogs.