Dorset's seas are incredibly special and important to us all for all kinds of reasons, whether used for business or for our enjoyment. The variety of underwater habitats found in Dorset, from swaying seagrass meadows to muddy harbours and from rock pools to sandy seashores, provide endless opportunities to explore and are inspiration for our rich cultural activities too. We want everyone to share their sea stories with us!

Everyone understands that our marine environment and wildlife is under threat and protection for the sea and what lives there is a top environmental priority. Helping this wildlife to recover will benefit us all, from locking away carbon, to supporting commercial activities and providing healthier waters for us all to enjoy

Julie Hatcher

Wild Seas Centre Officer, Dorset Wildlife Trust

At the end of a long day, I know I can get a lift by walking along the strandline at my local beach. There’s always something interesting to find among the seaweed where the tide has turned: mermaids’ purses, by-the-wind-sailors, cork floats with goose barnacles, fascinating things that take my full attention. I pick out the plastic I find there, too, which makes me feel I’m doing some good, so it’s a win win.

Wyl Menmuir

Author and ocean advocate

We're so lucky to have waters around our Great British Isles which are teeming with life, with treasures equalling anywhere else on this planet. I distinctly remember swimming in a seagrass meadow off the coast of Cornwall with spiny seahorses bumping into my mask! Even if you don't live on the coast, you can still get involved with National Marine Week by learning about the deadly impact of pollution on our seas and doing a litter pick to make sure less plastic makes its way downstream.

Steve Backshall

TV presenter and supporter of National Marine Week