Wednesday 3rd March - Finding Sanctuary meets Minister in Lundy

Members of the Finding Sanctuary project team and Steering Group joined the Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies on a boat trip to Lundy - visiting England's first Marine Conservation Zone.

Joana Smith, Finding Sanctuary's Communications Coordinator and John Butterwith, one of the fishing representatives on the Finding Sanctuary Steering Group joined Huw Irranca-Davies, the Minister for Marine and Natural Environment, on a boat trip to Lundy Island yesterday. James Marsden, Natural England's Director Marine and Melissa Moore from the Marine Conservation Society charity were also on board. In January, Lundy Island was announced as England's first Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ).

The day was a chance to highlight the progress being made in the south-west to develop plans for new MCZs. In this region, the Finding Sanctuary project is helping scientists, fishermen, leisure users and conservationists for the first time to work together to plan protected areas at sea. The Minister declared his ongoing support and encouragement for this work.

The fantastic weather and calm conditions provided the group with optimum conditions to spot some of the fantastic marine wildlife Lundy has to offer, from harbour porpoises and seals to extensive seabird colonies.

ITV Westcountry film crew and reporters from the Western Morning News also joined the group. The ITV Westcountry report will be available on this website for a few days. 

Accompanying Photograph: John Butterwith - Finding Sanctuary Steering Group member (left),  Joana Smith - Finding Sanctuary Communications (middle), Minister Huw Irranca-Davies (right).