From honeycomb worms to solar powered sea slugs, this summer’s National Marine Week from The Wildlife Trust will shine a light on some of the lesser-known creatures and plants found in UK costal waters.

Devon Wildlife is leading the annual celebration of life in the seas in the South West. It plans to inspire a new generation of marine conservationists and volunteers through a series of special events at its popular Wembury Marine Centre, near Plymouth.

Wembury Marine Centre’s packed calendar includes rock pool safaris, snorkel safaris and live theatre. National Marine Week takes place from Saturday 22nd July to Sunday 6th August – spanning a fortnight due to varying tidal conditions along the Devon coast

UK seas are home to over 330 species of fish, 28 cetaceans, seagrasses, seaweeds and living reefs. The marine environment is also under huge pressure from damaging fishing practices, development at sea and pollution from farming, sewage and plastic.

Coral Smith, Devon Wildlife Trust’s Marine Engagement Officer, says:

“From sun stars to seagrass meadows, Devon’s seas are home to fascinating creatures, habitats, and plants. This year’s National Marine Week reminds us of the great diversity around our shores and why it is so important we look after our seas for people, wildlife and climate.

“We are encouraging everyone to join events and find out more about the work being done to protect our shores and seas. From backing campaigns to beach cleans, there are so many ways to get involved.”

“It is critical that at least 30% of UK seas are given the highest level of environmental protection by the end of this decade. Doing this will help wildlife recover with enormous benefits for fishing, as well as ensuring vast amounts of carbon remains stored in natural habitats such as sand, mud, and seagrass. Better protections for our seas will mean more wildlife, and that helps everyone.”

As part of this year’s Marine Week Wembury Marine Centre is playing host to an evening of live theatre. The Troubador Theatre Company will be staging a performance of ‘The Selfish Shelfish’ on Tuesday 1 August at 5.30pm. The play which is aimed at families will take place on Wembury beach and promises ‘a special tale about a shellfish and his fishy friends and the perils they face in a changing ocean!’

More information about the theatre performance and tickets, plus details of all the other events taking place in Marine Week are available from the Wembury Marine Centre’s website. Booking is essential for most of the events being staged.