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A HAMPSHIRE farmer has made it to the final four of a national wildlife competition.

In May, Michael Poland, 70, of Upham, who farms on the Isle of Wight, was selected as the South East finalist from more than 300 UK entrants for helping birds and other wildlife via his farming methods at Wroxall Manor Farm.

A prize of £1,000 and the title of Nature of Farming Champion 2008 are now up for grabs, but Mr Poland will only win if the public vote for him.

Mr Poland said: "When I heard I was South East finalist I couldn't believe it, but to have reached the final four is a fantastic reflection of just how special Wroxall Manor Farm really is.

"To be recognised in this way is a great honour for my staff and I, and we hope to make Hampshire and the Isle of Wight proud. Fingers crossed, the community will come out to vote, and help put the area on the map as a great place for wildlife."

Mr Poland's 1200-acre farm, operating under the banner of Wight Conservation, boasts six ancient woodlands, heathland, downland, chalkland and ponds.

The vast array of habitats means it is home to red squirrels, dormice, adders, skylarks, barn owls, rare butterflies and bats and more.

Measures introduced by Mr Poland include tree surgery schemes to prolong ancient woodland, heathland restoration, seasonal grazing, and pond creation.

You can vote for Mr Poland from now until Friday September 26 by visiting www.rspb.org.uk/farmvote.

To discover more about Wroxall Manor Farm and Wight Conservation visit www.wightconservation.co.uk.

8:02pm Friday 18th July 2008

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