A drawing celebrating the MPA’s 50th birthday (depicting a stunning sunset cup coral cake) was specially commissioned from Bob Foster-Smith
The chance to immerse yourself (yet stay dry!) and play with seals under water whilst wearing a Virtual Reality headset, proved popular with visitors and staff alike! © Issy Irving
As the voluntary marine nature reserve was established in 1972, we made a point of celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2022 by holding a Marine Festival. The Festival lasted for two months (mid-July until mid-September) and had the following aims:
- To highlight the existence of the island’s Marine Protected Area (MPA);
- To celebrate its 50th anniversary (the oldest MPA in the country);
- To undertake a number of projects designed to contribute towards the on-going management of the MPA;
- To leave a worthwhile legacy behind once the Festival was over; and
- To promote the cause (by raising awareness) of marine conservation in general.
The core of the Festival was holding a week-long Marine Bioblitz, about which more can be read here. Those less keen on getting wet could enjoy a dive with seals at Lundy using Virtual Reality headsets, whilst remaining bone dry!
A summary of the projects undertaken during the Marine Festival can be found here. A full report on the outcomes of the Marine Festival can be found here.
