Life beneath the Keel to be revealed
A leading nature charity is planning to reveal the secrets of the South West’s wonderful marine wildlife at a special event being organised for recreational boat owners and the wider public.
The event, entitled ‘Life Beneath the Keel’, is being staged by Devon Wildlife Trust at the Mount Batten Centre, Plymouth, between 10am and 2.30pm on Saturday 16 April.
Life Beneath the Keel is free to attend and open to everyone but has a focus on the boat owning community. Mike Elsey, Devon Wildlife Trust’s Corporate Relations Officer, explained the charity’s thinking. Mike said:
“Anyone who owns a boat, or is fascinated by the marine environment, will find plenty to interest and educate them, irrespective of age. “
Visitors to Life Beneath the Keel can expect to have their eyes opened to the wonderful world of wildlife that lives along the South West’s coastal waters. Mike said:
“We find that people are often amazed to find out about the sheer diversity of local marine wildlife and that this includes sea horses, corals, whales and dolphins. Part of Devon Wildlife Trust’s job is to let people know about what’s out there and the simple things that all of us can do to ensure that this natural heritage is conserved.”
Life Beneath the Keel will be a mix of short talks, display stands and information from a range of organisations and individuals.
They include Devon Wildlife Trust, South West Water, wildlife authors and photographers Paul and Teresa Naylor and Lisa Woollett, John Hepburn, the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth City Council and Sole of Discretion CIC. The event will showcase the amazing wildlife which lives locally. Discussion topics are to include Marine Conservation Zones, the importance of seagrass, water quality, the Secchi Disk project, responsible marine wildlife watching, and ethical fish sourcing.
Life Beneath The Keel is the first of a spring and summer calendar of events being organised by Devon Wildlife Trust designed to showcase and safeguard local nature. The events are being generously supported by South West Water and include:
- Wembury Marine Centre Schools Education Programme – South West Water’s support will ensure that 50 schools and more than 2,000 school children are able to visit Wembury Marine Centre and learn about the incredible local coastal wildlife.
- A Concert for Wildlife – Saturday 16 July sees Devon Wildlife Trust host a South West Water supported evening of wildlife-themed classical music from composers including Vaughan Williams, Delius and Britten. Tickets from www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk/boxoffice
- Bystock Discovery Day – Tuesday 26 July . This wonderful East Devon nature reserve (near Exmouth) opens its doors and its wildlife secrets to the public. Supported by South West Water.
Alan Hyde, Head of Communications at South West Water, said: ”The South West’s coastal waters sustain a rich marine wildlife. We all have a role to play in protecting the environment, both on land and at sea. South West Water is delighted to support the Trust’s vibrant programme of events, which educates and often entertains people about the natural world around and beneath them.”
Life Beneath The Keel is being held at the Mount Batten Centre, 70 Lawrence Rd, Mount Batten, Plymouth PL9 9SJ. Car parking is available nearby, while the site is also easily accessible using public transport. Refreshments will be available on the day.
