Families are being invited to discover the hidden wonders of the Isle of Wight’s coastline this summer as popular ranger-led rock pooling and fossil hunting sessions return to Fort Victoria Country Park.

The guided activities, running throughout the school holidays, offer visitors the chance to explore one of the Island’s richest shorelines for marine life, with opportunities to uncover everything from crabs, shrimps and anemones to fish, shells and other fascinating coastal creatures.

Alongside the rock pooling, participants can also search for fossils hidden among the shingle. The remains of ancient marine creatures such as sharks, fish, turtles and even crocodiles that once inhabited the area can be found.

The sessions will once again be led by Fort Victoria ranger Anita Matheson, with special guest Dr Martin Munt, a leading fossil expert formerly of Dinosaur Isle Museum, joining a number of walks during the summer to share his knowledge and help visitors identify their finds.

Anita said: “The beach here is such a fascinating place, there is so much to look for, whether it is shore crabs, shells, fossils or some of the many other creatures that call this coastline home.

“We’re also delighted Dr Martin Munt will be joining some of the sessions this summer. His knowledge of the Isle of Wight’s fossils and geology adds another fascinating dimension to the walks.”

The sessions will take place on the following dates:

• Monday, July 27 – 2pm
• Tuesday, July 28 – 2pm
• Wednesday, July 29 – 2.30pm
• Wednesday, August 5 – 10am
• Thursday, August 6 – 10.30am
• Friday, August 7 – 11am
• Monday, August 10 – 2pm
• Tuesday, August 11 – 2pm
• Wednesday, August 12 – 2.30pm
• Wednesday, August 19 – 10am
• Thursday, August 20 – 10.30am
• Friday, August 21 – 11am
• Monday, August 24 – 2pm
• Tuesday, August 25 – 2pm
• Wednesday, August 26 – 2.30pm

Fort Victoria is situated between Yarmouth and Colwell. Participants should meet outside the Rangers Office before the start of each session.

Activities typically last between one hour and 90 minutes, allowing plenty of time to explore the shoreline and learn more about the wildlife, geology and history of the area.

There is no need to book in advance, with visitors encouraged to simply turn up on the day, although numbers may be limited to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The cost is £3 per person or £10 for a family group, with cash payments requested.

Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear for the beach and be prepared for uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.