News
Former EA bathing water expert joins marine charity to head up conservation work
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS), the UK’s leading marine charity, has appointed a former Environment Agency (EA) lead on bathing waters as its new Director of Programmes.
Dr Christine Tuckett joins the Herefordshire-based charity with over 20 years’ experience of environmental protection. She has worked for government bodies on a wide range of issues from air quality to water resources.
Between 2010 and 2013, Chris was the EA lead on bathing waters during implementation of the revised Bathing Water Directive, when she worked closely with MCS. More recently Chris led for the EA on agriculture and land management, tackling water pollution from agriculture.
Improving bathing water quality has been at the heart of MCS’ conservation work for over 30 years. Its online Good Beach Guide, which was originally published in book form, has worked to improve bathing water standards and was instrumental in getting stricter guidelines introduced for British beaches.
In her new role of Director of Programmes, Chris says she hopes to bring her experience and enthusiasm to help MCS spread its influence even further: “I hope we can work closely with government to make sure that the protection of our seas is not overlooked during these turbulent times. I’m really looking forward to working with and learning from the skilled staff at the charity – helping to raise the profile of their work and improving the marine environment as a result.”
MCS Chief Executive, Sandy Luk, says the charity is delighted to welcome Chris to oversee its conservation teams: “We are thrilled to welcome Chris into the MCS team. Her experience is going to be invaluable in helping us achieve sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, clean seas and ocean recovery.”
Chris, who grew up in Devon, says she’s has always had a passion for the sea and marine environment and is ‘chuffed’ to be joining MCS. “It feels a bit like coming home”, she says.
For more information, please visit www.mcsuk.org.
Last Thursday, Oyster Diving transformed Mercers Lake into a hauntingly unforgettable underwater realm for their inaugural Halloween Scuba Party. Approximately 20 intrepid divers plunged into the darkness, weaving through a mesmerising scene of spectral decorations, glow sticks, and eerie underwater pumpkins.
After the thrilling night dive, participants gathered to feast on a ghoulish spread of pumpkin soup, chilli con carne, and decadent fudge brownies, perfect fuel for the frightful festivities.
With a resounding success, Oyster Diving is excited to announce plans for this event to become an annual tradition. Next year, look forward to a fully licensed bar and live music, promising an even spookier celebration under the moonlit waters.
Join us next Halloween for an experience that promises to be a haunting delight!
Find out more about Oyster Diving at oysterdiving.com.
After a two-year tour of UK art galleries, community spaces and aquariums, the Shark Trust’s acclaimed Oceanic31 exhibition takes its final bow at the Royal Geographical Society later this month. And the unique collection of artwork, depicting 31 species of oceanic sharks and rays, donated by 31 artists, is now open for bids from art lovers and shark enthusiasts. The online auction, launched today, will close on the 7th December at 8pm (BST). The money raised will support the Shark Trust Oceanics Programme.
People can now bid on 27 of the artworks by visiting this website:
https://superstars-auctions.com/sharktrustauction
It is a chance to own a beautiful piece of original art and to support the Shark Trust. The timing of the auction also means that these would make a very special Christmas gift for any shark-lover.
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- Bigeye Thresher Shark by Janina Rossiter
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- Carcharodon carcharias by Jimmy Higgs
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- Croc VR 2030 by Tom Mead
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- Oceanic Whitetip by ATM
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- Silky Street by ScapaJoe
The diversity of pieces mirrors that of the sharks and rays they represent. You can bid on paintings, digital creations, sculptures, mixed media and more. You can pick your favourite artist or species of shark. Or you can select the perfect artwork to make a statement in your home or office. Whichever you choose, you will be supporting the work to protect these amazing animals.
One of the pieces of art has been selected to be auctioned live by Steve Backshall at the For the Love of Sharks event at the Royal Geographical Society in London on the 29th November. In addition to this, two further pieces will be raffled at this event, giving people a chance to win an incredible piece of shark art. For the Love of Sharks is the Shark Trust’s flagship evening. A night to celebrate sharks. Steve Backshall is the headline speaker at this event that will see other prominent shark advocates join him on stage.
Tickets for the event can be snapped up here:
https://thesharktrust.org.uk/Event/flos24
Those that would like to see the Oceanic 31 exhibition have one final chance. It is being displayed at the Pavilion at the Royal Geographic Society from 26th November until the 7th December. Entry is free.
Find out more here:
https://www.rgs.org/events/upcoming-events/oceanic-31
Paul Cox, Shark Trust CEO, Said “This exhibition has given us the opportunity to reach out to a new audience. And inspire more people with the wonderful sharks and rays on which our Big Shark Pledge campaign is based. We are immensely grateful to the 31 artists who have worked so hard to create these works.”
Bid for your favourite Oceanic 31 artwork here:
https://superstars-auctions.com/sharktrustauction
Banner Image: Smooth Hammerhead by Alicia Hayden
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