Fantastic Opportunity to Visit a Private Island 

Foulness Island is located just off the Essex coast and public entry to this wildlife haven is normally forbidden.   

It is separated from the mainland by narrow creeks and had a usually resident population of 212 people in the 2001 census.  They lived in the settlements of Churchend and Courtsend, at the north end of the island which has a general store and post office. It is predominantly farm land and is protected from the sea by a sea wall.

The island's name is derived from the Old English for wild birds and promontory, and it is an internationally important site for migrating and breeding birds, including avocets. During the North Sea flood of 1953, almost the entire island was flooded, and two people died.

Prior to 1922, when the military road was built, access was only available across the Maplin Sands via the Broomway, a tidal path said to pre-date the Romans, or by boat. Although public rights of way exist, the island is run by QinetiQ on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, and access to the island is only permitted with a pass, obtainable from Shoeburyness. The island's visitor centre is opened to the public on the first Sunday in summer months, but permission must be sought to visit. Until 2007, it was possible for the public to visit the George and Dragon pub on the island by telephoning ahead; if they had not done so, access would be denied and not surprisingly like many on the mainland, the pub is no more. 

Eaton Bray & Edlesborough Lions are offering us a unique opportunity to visit this private island on Saturday 9th June 2012.

The cost is £35.00 per person and includes coach transfer to the island, two different guided tours - one walking tour and a tractor & trailer tour with local wildlife experts, lunch and entry to the heritage centre museum.

Numbers are limited to 60 so anyone wishing to take advantage of the outing need to book early to avoid disappointment.

Terms & Conditions
As spaces are limited to 60, full pre-payment is required with your confirmation in order to secure your seats.
As the island is an active MOD site, we will be asked to supply full names of everybody attending this day trip.  Anyone who’s name is not on the list may be refused access.
The island has a strict non smoking policy
Photography is prohibited in certain locations on the island
People with mobility problems are advised that this trip may not be suitable

Your ticket price includes the following :-
   -   Return coach trip from Eaton Bray
   -   A wildlife walking tour
   -   A tractor and trailer wildlife tour covering further across the island
   -   Local tour guides with you throughout to point out rare species and historical points of interest
   -   Designated time in the island heritage centre
   -   Plated lunch
   -   A small donation to Foulness Island Heritage Centre

Additional refreshments will be available for purchase from the heritage centre during the day

An Application form was sent to all members via email but if you have lost this and require a copy, please contact John to obtain a duplicate.