Our Mission “British farmers are paid to conserve on land. Our project will try to find ways in which fishermen can derive similar benefits from conservation at sea.”

2017 News

35th Consultative Committee Meeting
8th December, 2017

This week saw the 35th Consultative Committee Meeting held in Lyme Regis. These meetings bring together fishermen, scientists, marine regulators and conservationists around the same table to plan the long-term sustainable future of Lyme Bay.

Lyme Bay Reserve has been hailed as a ‘world first’ because of the way it engages fishermen to take the lead in the conservation of their fishery, providing long-term benefits to marine life, to fishermen and to the local community.

Sat around the table were fishermen representatives from the four ports of Lyme Bay; West Bay, Lyme Regis, Axmouth and Beer, Devon and Severn IFCA, Southern IFCA, Marine Management Organisation - MMO, Blue Marine Foundation and Plymouth University Marine Institute.

To read minutes from our previous meetings head over to our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/download-centre/

Inquisitive Smalleyed Ray
1st December, 2017

Fantastic footage from the Lyme Bay seabed, this time featuring a rather inquisitive Smalleyed Ray.

Filmed by Plymouth University Marine Institute as part of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve Scientific Potting Study (part funded by Blue Marine Foundation) which is looking in to appropriate effort levels and their effects on target species and seabed species in Lyme Bay.

For more information about the Lyme Bay Scientific Potting Study head over to: http://www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/conservation-and-science/research.php

Did you spot it?
27th November, 2017

Filmed in Lyme Bay Reserve as part of the RETURN project. Funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, the Reserve Effects Tested and Understood to validate Return (RETURN) project will extend the Lyme Bay monitoring programme through to 2019, building on what is already the most comprehensive dataset for temperate reef ecosystems globally. The RETURN project will shed new light on the relative impact of human disturbance compared to natural variability, including extreme storm events.

The data generated over ten years by the team at Plymouth University provides vital evidence to establish the recovery rates and extents for Lyme Bay’s protected marine habitat and associated species, following the exclusion of bottom towed fishing gear from an area of temperate reef.

For more details head over to: https://sheehanresearchgroup.com/return/

Turbots aboard KT-Sam E10
30th November, 2017

Young skipper Sam aboard KT-Sam E10 caught a couple of sustainably caught Turbots in the net during trip out in Lyme Bay Reserve this week.

Lyme Bay Reserve is a Marine Reserve in Lyme Bay in which multiple uses such as fishing are allowed as long as none are damaging to the seabed or to nature conservation. The Reserve has three wins; to implement best practice in protecting the biodiversity of Lyme Bay, to implement best practice in managing fish and shellfish stocks and in creating long-term benefits for coastal communities around the bay.

Head over to our website for more information: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk

A hidden sole! See if you can spot it…
26th November, 2017

Filmed by Plymouth University Marine Institute as part of the annual monitoring of Lyme Bay. Analysed by Project Support Officer Chloe Game.

Ever wondered how a scallop moves?
21st November, 2017

This video taken by Plymouth University Marine Institute in Lyme Bay shows a scallop in full flight. Scallops swim by forcibly ejecting water from the mantle cavity in two jets or streams that exit on either side of the morphological dorsal, or hinge, area of the shells.

That’s devotion to duty for you!
13th November, 2017

We thought we'd share some pictures from a recent visit by Paul and Chris from SPX Refrigeration & Air conditioning whilst out on the Cobb in Lyme Regis in a gale with seas coming over their van!

Their visit was to iron out some teething troubles in the new chiller facility in Lyme Regis. The chillers have been installed to improve the quality, shelf-life and value of the landed catches for the fishermen. All of this goes a long way towards the long-term sustainable future of Lyme Bay for both fish and fishermen.

Part funded by the Blue Marine Foundation and the European Fisheries Fund. For more details about this scheme head over to our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/

West Bay chiller facility
9th November, 2017

Lyme Bay Reserve Project Officer Neville Copperthwaite took a trip to Southampton Docks last week with Paul Creed from SPX Refrigeration & Air conditioning to choose an insulated container suitable for conversion for the West Bay chiller facility.

The chiller facility is part of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve’s aim to improve existing port facilities with the provision of chiller facilities and insulated fish boxes, which help to improve the quality, durability and value of the landed, catches by the fishermen. As fishermen have agreed to a reduction in gear levels in the interests of the environment, it is therefore desirable to help them achieve an optimum price for their catch by way of providing basic chiller facilities within their port. The availability of this chiller unit will lead to increased competitiveness and improved quality of the fishermen's catch. In turn this will lead to increased value on their existing catch from existing markets.

The chiller unit is part funded by the Blue Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve) and the European Fisheries Fund. The fishing ports of Beer, Axmouth and Lyme Regis already have their chiller units and are being used to great success.

For more information about the fishermen's catch visit: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/

Fascinating Fishy Factoid
7th November, 2017

An amazing find from the Lyme Bay annual monitoring survey, part of the RETURN project (https://sheehanresearchgroup.com/RETURN/) by Chloe Game, Project Support Officer of Plymouth University Marine Institute – a settled scallop spat on a polychaete tube, showing the importance of sessile organisms as habitat providers.

Discover the many more amazing marine flora and fauna found in Lyme Bay over on our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/marine-life/flora-and-fauna.php


Commercially caught species of Lyme Bay
1st November, 2017

With over 1,300 different species found in Lyme Bay, 41 of which are commercially caught, Lyme Bay is full of marine life.

These photos taken by local skippers fishing from their boats E544 & KT-Sam E10 in Lyme Bay Reserve show the different types of fish and shellfish sustainably caught throughout the year, from rod & line caught bass to plaice, mackerel and crabs.

Discover more of what Lyme Bay has to offer under the waves on our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/marine-life

It's a busy week this week for our Schools Outreach Team
18th October, 2017

Yesterday saw us head to Wey Valley School in Weymouth, Dorset to talk to 30 students from the After School Science Club and today it was an early start to head over to Uplowman Primary School in Tiverton for a double session on all things fishy and sustainable. Pictured here are Wey Valley School students getting to grips (quite literally!) with how different hole sizes in nets affect the quantity of fish caught and the repercussions of catching them all.

We are currently at full capacity for visiting new schools in October, however we are still taking bookings for November and part of December. If you work in a school and would like a FREE visit, contact Nicky Mitchard our Schools Outreach Coordinator:

Life beneath the waves of Lyme Bay
16th October, 2017

We're always excited to show you what life is like beneath the waves of Lyme Bay where a thriving ecosystem lives hidden from view.

This video filmed by Plymouth University Marine Institute as part of the Lyme Bay Reserve Scientific Potting Study shows a common or European cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) slowly cruising above a Lyme Bay seabed.

The common cuttlefish or European common cuttlefish is one of the largest and best-known cuttlefish species found in Lyme Bay. It grows to 49cm in mantle length and 4kg in weight. Caught in the spring and summer there is demand from the Asian market for them.

Camouflage is the primary defence in these animals, whose rapidly adaptable body patterning system is among the most sophisticated in the animal kingdom. For more information about the marine life found in Lyme Bay and how the fishermen are protecting this special area, head over to our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk

Visit by Gulia Bernardi to Lyme Bay Reserve
11th October, 2017

Gulia Bernardi is the Marine Project Manager for the Aeolian Island Preservation Fund. She is a Marine Biologist and underwater instructor, and is currently carrying on a PhD thesis with the Parthenope University of Naples to develop hypothesis about the status of fish stocks around the islands. The Blue Marine Foundation is working in collaboration with Giulia and fishermen to help establish a marine protected area around the Aeolian Islands using the same principles that underpin the Lyme Bay Reserve, the aim being to achieve three wins; for fishermen, for fishing communities and for conservation.

In order to understand the complications of managing such a huge undertaking, Giulia has been whisked over to Lyme Bay to meet with Neville Copperthwaite to learn about the day-to-day challenges of life within a marine protected area. Neville told Giulia that a good starting point is to remember that everyone – that includes fishermen, environmentalist and conservationists – everyone wants the same thing; and that is clean, healthy and productive seas.

Pictured here is Gulia visiting the ports of Beer, Axmouth and Lyme Regis with Neville and Blue Marine Foundation Project Manager Rory Moore.

For more details about the project in the Aeolian Islands head over to: www.bluemarinefoundation.com/project/aeolian-islands/

Beneath the waves of Lyme Bay
9th October, 2017

This video, taken by Plymouth University Marine Institute, is part of the Lyme Bay Reserve Experimental Potting Study and illustrates the profusion of species that grow on the Lyme Bay seabed.

The rock reefs of Lyme bay are mostly low lying and frequently covered with a thin veneer of fine sand. This creates a particular habitat; species such as the large solitary tunicate Phallusia mammillata (white sea squirt, centre of picture) occur in high densities here along with other sediment tolerant species such as the bright yellow tasseled sponge Lophon hyndmani or Lophonopsis nigricans (the two species cannot be positively differentiated underwater) can also be seen.

Along with an abundance of juvenile fish, Lyme Bay is the perfect, protected habitat for a thriving ecosystem and a healthy fishing community.

For more about the conservation measure and science behind the Lyme Bay Reserve head over to our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk

Commercial sustainable fishing boat
3rd October, 2017

Mears Boat Builders in Axmouth have been busy putting the finishing touches on the latest commercial sustainable fishing boat fishing from Axmouth Harbour in Lyme Bay. She last fished in 1992 and now has a new lease of life. Photo by: www.mearsboatbuilders.co.uk

Schools Outreach Visit
28th September, 2017

We headed off to Greatfield Park Primary School in Cheltenham last week for another schools outreach visit. Our hour-long sessions are part presentation part activity based and include footage of marine life in Lyme Bay, fishing methods used to catch seafood sustainably, how fishermen and conservationists are working together, the interdependency of species and the life cycle of a lobster which we bring along with us.

Teacher Maria Gore sent us this lovely message along with some photos of the children meeting Larry the lobster; "We were delighted with our session. The children were so excited to see Larry. I would on behalf of all the children and myself like to say a really big thank you".

If you would like to book a FREE hour-long visit to your school please contact our Schools Outreach Coordinator Nicky Mitchard: . But be quick, October is now full and November is quickly filling up! www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/about/schools-outreach.php

Reserve Seafood Scheme
26th September, 2017

Some stunning fish being landed from Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve this morning. On its way to Direct Seafoods in London this afternoon as part of the Reserve Seafood scheme: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/

Ban on landing egg-carrying female lobsters
20th September, 2017

We reported last week on the ban of landing egg-carrying female lobsters which was announced by the Government in England in order to conserve dwindling stocks.

The ban was supported by the Blue Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve) where fishermen already return berried lobsters (egg-carrying) and by 3/4 of the commercial fishermen who responded to a public consultation by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Read Blue Marine Foundation's UK Project Officer Morven's full article on how the Blue Marine Foundation backs the ban: http://www.bluemarinefoundation.com/2017/09/20/blue-backs-ban-on-landing-berried-lobsters/

39th National Small Boat Angling Championship
20th September, 2017

The Angling Trust, Wyvern Region held their 39th National Small Boat Angling Championships, which took place in Salcombe, Devon over the weekend.

The winner, Granville Braham from Pontyclun, South Wales had the highest aggregate of his 2 best fish of different species, which was a Conger (36lbs, 9.6oz) and a Bull Huss (10lbs, 14.08oz). 2nd place went to James Trevett from Honiton Sea Angling Club with his Conger (41lbs, 4.8oz) and Ray (8lbs, 1.6oz).

Well done to all involved – a very impressive two days at sea.

Unexpected catch from Lyme Bay
19th September, 2017

An unexpected catch yesterday by fisherman Gavin Ziemann fishing in Lyme Bay Reserve on board his boat Sunbeam, a 2.8kg Bonito Tuna! A shoal of them was spotted and one was caught. Pre First World War there was once a tuna fishery in Lyme Bay, however due to a change in water temperature there was a plankton shift away from this area and the food chain went with it along with the tuna.

Delivered to Direct Seafoods in London last night as part of the Lyme Bay Reserve Seafood Scheme, it is already on its way to The Anthologist.

Schools Outreach visit to St Mary’s Primary School, Bridport
15th September, 2017

Lyme Bay Reserve fisherman Gavin Ziemann visited years 3 & 5 at St Mary's Primary School in Bridport this morning to talk to them about marine ecology and how fishing sustainably in Lyme Bay can protect marine species and habitats for future generations. The children listened with intrigue and excitement, especially when some where asked to help Gavin demonstrate how different sized holes in his nets catch different sizes of fish. A question at the end of the hour-long visit from an engaged child puzzled Gavin though. The question was 'What is the maximum speed a cuttlefish can swim?' Anyone out there know the answer? We'd love to know ourselves!

Education Outreach Programme 2017/18
13th September, 2017

A new academic year means we head in to year two of the Lyme Bay Reserve Marine Education Outreach Programme. With visits taking place in September already and new visits being booked for the year ahead, year two is set to be another successful year, but don't just take our word for it, pictured here is a wonderful ‘Thank You’ book from Brixington Primary School in Exmouth where each child wrote and drew a thank you message inside.

If you work in education and would like a FREE, one-hour fascinating session exploring marine biodiversity and sustainable fishing, delivered by experts please, please contact Nicky Mitchard, Schools Outreach Coordinator: .

The Lyme Bay Reserve Marine Education Outreach Programme is facilitated by the Blue Marine Foundation and funded by Marks and Spencer.

Consultation on the prohibition on landing egg-bearing
13th September, 2017

The consultation on the prohibition on landing egg-bearing lobsters and crawfish in England has concluded. The Government response to the consultation has now been published and can be found online: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/
banning-the-landing-of-egg-bearing-lobsters-and-crawfish-in-england

Having considered the responses to the consultation, the majority of which supported the proposal, the Government has decided to proceed with introducing the ban.

RETURN Project Film
6th September, 2017

Angus Walker, Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve fisherman praises Blue Marine Foundation's sustainable fishery in Lyme Bay, which has brought together fishermen and conservationists to form a working group: "I think BLUE's great gift to us is that forum". Watch this film, part of the Plymouth University RETURN project, which explains more: sheehanresearchgroup.com/return

Honiton Sea Angling Club Competition
4th September, 2017

A few members of the Honiton Sea Angling Club were doing really well fishing in the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve last weekend – what a great place they have locally to fish in! Pictured here is Archie Sweatland with a Cod and Thornback Ray and young Reid Trevett with his first ever Garfish from Seaton. Senior member Adam Taylor is also pictured with a nice Tub Gurnard of 3lb 6oz.

Beer Regatta
14th August, 2017

Honiton Sea Angling Club ran the Beer Regatta self-drive species hunt on Saturday morning at Beer, Devon.

Ten boats took part with three anglers on each boat. The winner would be who could catch, photograph and return as many different species of fish in four hours. A great morning was had with some 15 species of fish caught, the winner was Barry Trevett from Sidmouth (pictured central in black) with ten species. Runner up was Mike Foyle from Bournemouth with nine species.

Best junior was Archie Sweatland with a black bream of 1lb 3oz. Best specimen went to Chris Sweatland with a red gurnard of 1lb 11oz. Best bream of the event went to Matt Cornell with a fish of 2lb. Catching 15 different species all with in one mile from the shore is proof that the Lyme Bay protected reserve area is working.

…but it's not all dark clouds and stormy seas.
11th August, 2017

Dr Luke Holmes from Plymouth University Marine Institute rounds up the 2017 survey work with a snapshot of what was seen; from dolphins on the 1st day to Red Arrows on the last – what a fantastic survey season in Lyme Bay Reserve.

The Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve is facilitated by the Blue Marine Foundation with partners the Plymouth University Marine Institute providing scientific research to underpin the management of the Reserve.

For more details head over to: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk

Remember kids, fieldwork isn't all dolphins and sun!
11th August, 2017

Wise words from Dr Luke Holmes from Plymouth University Marine Institute during a recent survey trip out in Lyme Bay Reserve last month.

For more information about this survey work head over to: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/research/marine-biology-and-ecology-research-centre/marine-protected-areas-monitoring-the-lyme-bay-exclusion-zone

Tasty Catch!
10th August, 2017

The crew on board KT-Sam E10 have been busy catching rod and line bass at its very best out of Lyme Bay Reserve.

West Bay Chiller Unit
9th August, 2017

There's more than meets the eye with this building.

This is the start of the new chiller unit built on the jetty in West Bay. It will be clad in wood to match the other timber shelters and is due for completion by the end of the summer. This is part of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve’s aim to improve existing port facilities with the provision of chiller facilities and insulated fish boxes which help to improve the quality, durability and value of the landed catches by the fishermen. As fishermen have agreed to a reduction in gear levels in the interests of the environment, it is therefore desirable to help them achieve an optimum price for their catch by way of providing basic chiller facilities within their port. The availability of this chiller unit will lead to increased competitiveness and improved quality of the fishermen's catch. In turn this will lead to increased value on their existing catch from existing markets.

The chiller unit is part funded by the Blue Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve) and the European Fisheries Fund. The fishing ports of Beer, Axmouth and Lyme Regis already have their chiller units and are being used to great success. Pictured here is the West Bay chiller unit before cladding and the Axmouth chiller unit, which has been cladded.

For more information about the fishermen's catch visit: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/

Flight of the scallop!
3rd August, 2017

Queen scallops (Aequipecten opercularis) filmed in Lyme Bay Reserve as part of the Plymouth University RETURN project: sheehanresearchgroup.com/return

How many can you count?

Fishing Competition News
2nd August, 2017

Two weeks ago Honiton Sea Angling Club ran a self drive plaice competition from Beer in Devon. Some 40 plaice were caught with many of them released as the event was run on the longest 3 fish per person.

The event went well and the club continues to promote the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve through their events. Club Press Officer Mike Spiller quotes 'Keep up all your hard work in this great area. Many are asking why are there not more of these areas around the country?'

The winners are shown left to right. Winner Wayne Broom, 2nd Mike Spiller and 3rd Chris Sweatland. All three winners came from the Honiton Sea Angling Club. Also pictured is the Best Fish of 3lb 10oz by Adam Squance and young Archie Sweatland who was Best Junior. Well done all involved.

Don't forget there’s a Junior Shore Angling Festival this coming Saturday 5th August to be fished at Mountbatten Breakwater, Plymouth, Devon. The event is open to anyone 16 years or younger. Head over to the website for more details: http://wyvernseaangling.org/fixtures/

Fishy Factoid!
1st August, 2017

You never know what goes on down on the Lyme Bay seabed…

'Starballing' has been filmed in Lyme Bay by Plymouth University Marine Institute during recent video survey work using high definition cameras attached to a sled as part of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve Scientific Potting Study, funded by Defra and facilitated by the Blue Marine Foundation.

This behaviour has only recently been documented and you can unearth the findings here: www.plymouth.ac.uk/news/starballing-starfish-may-hold-clue-to-mystery-of-mass-strandings

Schools Outreach Team Meeting
26th July, 2017

The team behind the Lyme Bay School Outreach Programme had their end of year review today. The agenda included; a review of the 2016/17 visits, number of visits and agreed a target for the 2017/18 academic year, what have been our greatest successes and what needs improving, our autumn marketing campaign along with a review of key actions and the vision for the future.

As a small, dynamic and hardworking team we have managed to achieve 38 school visits with 37% of schools requesting a repeat booking. Looks like we're doing something right!

Pictured left to right are: Rowena Taylor (Programme Manager), Nicky Michard (Programme Co-ordinator), Gavin Ziemann (Fisherman Ambassador), Morven Robertson (Blue Marine Foundation UK Projects Officer), Adam Rees (Plymouth University PhD student, Mari Walker (Education Consultant) and Neville Copperthwaite (Fisherman Ambassador).

To top the meeting off Nicky presented Gavin and Neville with thank you cards from two recent school visits. Stay tuned on our Facebook page as we bring you some of the kind words and interesting drawings from the school children.

Chiller unit in place in Lyme Regis
19th July, 2017

The chiller unit is now complete in Lyme Regis, which includes an ice making machine and thermal insulated fish boxes as part of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserves aim to improve existing port facilities with the provision of ice making equipment that will improve the quality, durability and value of the landed catches for fishermen. As fishermen have agreed to a reduction in gear levels in the interests of the environment, it is therefore desirable to help them achieve an optimum price for their catch by way of providing basic ice facilities within their port. The availability of on-site ice will lead to increased competitiveness and improved quality of the fishermen's catch. In turn this will lead to increased value on their existing catch from existing markets. 

The chiller room is part funded by the BLUE Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve) and the European Fisheries Fund. The fishing ports of Beer and Axmouth already have their chiller rooms and are being used to great success. Work is currently underway in the remaining port of West Bay. Stay tuned here for latest developments.

Plaice is the dish of the day
18th July, 2017

Plaice, plaice and a bit more plaice all caught in Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve by inshore fishermen fishing in a sustainable way from well managed stocks.

These plaice headed straight up to Direct Seafoods, London who source, prepare and deliver, quality, day boat fresh fish and seafood to chefs throughout London.

This is all part of Reserve Seafood. Head over to our website to discover more about the sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood of Lyme Bay: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/

Dorset Seafood Festival, 2017
10th July, 2017

The Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve along with facilitators the Blue Marine Foundation headed to the Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival along Weymouth Harbour, which celebrated its 10th anniversary over the weekend. The festival saw the biggest turnout to date and the town was packed as the sunshine brought out huge crowds to what was a hugely successful festival. An estimated 60,000 visitors tucked into seafood from the hundreds of stalls lining the harbour as they basked in the sunshine and sipped champagne.

The weekend started with an early morning interview with Radio Solent on the Friday at 7am. Tim Glover, UK Projects Director at the Blue Marine Foundation was asked about local responsibly sourced and sustainable seafood, its importance to the regional economy and how the festival provides a positive message about eating more seafood, better seafood and supporting our environment. This year the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve in partnership with Direct Seafoods London were supplying Reserve Seafood – the sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood of Lyme Bay to the four demo stages at the festival. Top names cooking with Reserve Seafood included seafood guru Duncan Lucas and Alex Aitken of The Jetty delighting the crowds on the Seafish Stage with their chef and fish mongering skills and David Hunter from Broil King and Peter Gordon from The Providores and Tapa Room showcasing the chef skills and promoting Reserve Seafood and the story behind it to a bumper packed audience. Many of the chefs commented on the high quality of the fish with David Hunter quoting ‘this is some of the best mackerel I have ever seen’.

Scallop diver Kieran Perree was selling his hand picked Lyme Bay scallops along the harbourside. As quoted on the Dorset Echo he said: "The Lyme Bay scallops have a distinct taste as they are sweeter than others.This is our third time here, we always like to come to this festival as it’s easily one of the best ones."

Festival organiser Anna Wallis thanked the team from the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve for their help in ensuring all chefs were catered for with Reserve Seafood and thanked Tim Glover for his input in judging the seafood stands for the Sustainability Awards along with Executive Chef Matt Budden of Stanwell House Hotel, Lymington. Another great festival and we’re look forward to next year’s already.

Be Coastwise
30th June, 2017

Have you watched the new Be Coastwise video? Show your children and stay safe on the coast!

Fantastic Facebook!
30th June, 2017

We've just reached over 1,000 Likes on our Facebook page and we'd like to say a big thank you to all of our followers! Stay tuned as we continue to bring you insights into the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve, which uniquely brings together fishermen, conservationists, scientists and marine regulators to create a new model of sustainable fishing through scientifically informed, best-practice management.

If you’re not already following us head over to @LymeBayReserve

Beautiful view of dolphins this week.
23rd June, 2017

Great to see these thriving in Lyme Bay Reserve. Video captured on board fisherman Jim Newton's boat from Beer, Devon.

Not a bad office window!
13th June, 2017

Photo taken from the Wet Fish Shop in Beer, Devon – a local seller of freshly caught, sustainable fish and shellfish. Supplies are dependent on weather conditions as the local fishing boats are unable to go to sea if the weather conditions are dangerous.

There should be good fishing this week though from the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve with the weather set fair right up until the weekend and beyond.
#HappyFishermen

Happy World Oceans Day!
8th June, 2017

For the Lyme Bay Reserve this World Oceans Day is all about celebrating our Schools Outreach Programme that has seen over 50 schools and 3,346 students participate this year. The programme involves fishing representatives visiting schools to engage students with Lyme Bay’s marine ecology, fisheries and conservation efforts. Using fishermen as ambassadors provides a real connection for students and the fishermen themselves take pride in the conservation scheme, ensuring its continuation. Importantly it allows the marine environment of Lyme Bay and its heritage to be communicated by those who depend on it for their livelihoods. The work in Lyme Bay, which is facilitated by the Blue Marine Foundation, has been hailed as a ‘world first’ for the way it engages fishermen to take a lead in conserving their fishery, providing long-term benefits to the marine environment, fishermen and the local community. Photo taken at a recent school's outreach visit to Whimple Primary School, Exeter in May. #worldoceansday

Wrap them up in it of course!
6th June, 2017

How do you demonstrate to school children the effects caused by fishing with different sized nets? Wrap them up in it of course! We headed over to Portesham Primary School in Dorset this morning to present to two classes about sustainable fishing in Lyme Bay Reserve. Part of the hour-long presentation focuses on the sustainable methods of fishing used in Lyme Bay. As you can see from the photos the hands on demonstration was a real hit and really helped explain what can sometimes be a complicated subject. Well done to the two classes from Portesham Primary School who's questions at the end were very thoughtful and even got fisherman Neville thinking on his feet!

If you work in education and would like a FREE schools outreach visit email our Schools Outreach Coordinator Nicky Mitchard: to book your visit. We are at full capacity this academic year, however we are taking booking for the next academic year starting in September.

Reserve Seafood
30th May, 2017

Our van is already and waiting by Axmouth's walk in chiller and ice storage unit for today's collection ready to be taken direct to Direct Seafoods London. From port-to-plate in less than 24 hours – you can't get fresher than that.


Diver caught Lyme Bay scallops
24th May, 2017

Beautiful! Diver caught Lyme Bay scallop baked in the shell with fermented fennel and wild garlic flowers cooked by The Jugged Hare – simply delicious.

In Lyme Bay scallops are dived for which minimises the damage to the reef habitats found in the bay. The reefs include flora and fauna species such as Pink sea fans, Ross corals and sea anemones, which make a great habitat for juvenile fish and shellfish. Pictured here is a dish from The Jugged Hare and a photo of Lyme Bay scallop diver John Worswick diving for scallops.

For more information head over to our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/marine-life/

Schools Outreach Programme Update
23rd May, 2017

It's been a busy May for the Lyme Bay Schools Outreach Programme with visits starting at Shute Primary School in Colyton, Axminster on 3rd May, Whimple Primary in East Devon on 9th May, Lympstone Primary in East Devon on 15th May, The Purbeck School in Wareham on 22nd May and today we were at All Saints Church of England School in Weymouth, Dorset. We also have a visit to St Michael's Primary School in Lyme Regis, Dorset tomorrow. Pictured here are a class of Year 9s from All Saints School getting to grips (quite literally) with methods of sustainable fishing.

If you work in education and would like a free schools outreach visit to your school email Nicky Mitchard our Schools Outreach Coordinator at:

Plymouth University say ‘thank you’.
9th May, 2017

A lovely quote from Dr Mark Davidson, Associate Professor in Coastal Processes at the School of Biological & Marine Sciences at Plymouth University regarding our recent education outreach visit to Masters students;

I just wanted to say a belated thank you for your talk to our masters students. We really enjoyed hearing your story and it really added positively to our programme of talks. I think that your message about making the effort to understand the points of view of all stakeholders, managing environments to the mutual benefit to all and above all not leaving basic human compassion out of the process was well received by all.

MANY THANKS!
Mark

Check out Mark's profile here:
www.plymouth.ac.uk/staff/mark-davidson

The wonders of the Lyme Bay seabed
8th May, 2017

The Lyme Bay seabed is an interesting place and one which if often out of sight from many – well apart from our scallop divers! So we thought we'd bring the seabed to you. This footage was filmed by Plymouth University Marine Institute as part of the Scientific Potting Study, which is being conducted within Lyme Bay to form a better understanding of appropriate fishing effort levels and their effects on target species and seabed species. In this video you'll see Brown crabs, Pink seafans, Starfish and many more interesting marine species: 

Dorset Seafood Festival
8th May, 2017

We will be attending the award winning, free to attend 10th Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival taking place around Weymouth’s famous historic harbourside on 8th and 9th July 2017. Produce from Lyme Bay Reserve's product Reserve Seafood will be cooked by the Chefs on demo stages throughout the weekend.

For more details visit: www.dorsetseafood.co.uk

Check out this absolute beauty!
3rd May, 2017

Fresh today from Lyme Bay Reserve and delivered direct to Direct Seafoods, London. Order quick before it's snapped up. From port-to-plate in 24 hours – you can't get fresher than that.

Education Outreach Programme visit to Plymouth University
28th April, 2017

On April 26th, the Lyme Bay School Outreach team visited Plymouth University to deliver a session to a group of Masters students as part of the 'Contemporary Issues in Marine Science' module on the MSc Applied Marine Science course. The aspiration for the day was to engage with students and inform them of the work undertaken by the Lyme Bay Working Group to date in response to the fishery problems of the Lyme Bay inshore fishery back in 2012 with an emphasis on the importance of education and effective stakeholder communication.

Neville explored the concept of marine management versus traditional marine conservation techniques, illustrating the issues faced by the group over the last 5 years and how together, challenges have been resolved. The students were keen to understand how stakeholder relationships were formed and nurtured and what the future of inshore fishing looked like, considering issues such as the declining interest in the fishing industry among the younger generation.

There was good debate around the role of fishermen, in terms of collecting evidence to support scientific studies and how this type of integrated working could be utilised with greater efficacy given the solitary nature of fishermen, scientists and regulators, often working in isolation. The Lyme Bay model was used to demonstrate how this type of approach can yield wider benefits, in terms of practical conservation measures, economics, scientific understanding and social integration i.e. the importance of 'community'.

Among the topics discussed at the end of the session were; the current approach to consultation by regulators and conservationists with wider stakeholders and how this could be made more effective, the idea of 'giving something back' to the fishing industry, whilst at the same time educating fishermen as to the sensitivities of the sea bed, and the obvious need to understand what motivates people i.e. considering human nature in all decision making, from a local community level to higher policy making level. The group were equally interested and inspired by Neville's background and keen to learn about possible career opportunities looking beyond their study. The feedback collected was extremely positive:

'The talk has given me a new perspective on what successful stakeholder management can deliver'.

'I have earmarked the Blue Marine Foundation for a career or internships after my degree'.

'I'm inspired by the idea that anyone can be a marine manager, just as anyone can be a conservationist'.

'It is inspiring to know what can be achieved through self study, motivation and a good understanding of human nature'.

'The delivery of the session was clear and informal and didn't feel like a lecture, more an engaging conversation'.

'The talk has supported and inspired ideas for my dissertation'.

'I feel I have a better understanding of the interactions and dynamics among different marine stakeholders'.

'It's made me think about the impact of conservation on the livelihoods of fishermen'.

'It's provided an alternative view and made me think about how humans need considering when discussing conservation’.

Recreational Sea Angling Update
25th April, 2017

An insightful quote and impressive photos from Mike Spiller, representative of Honiton Sea Angling Club, who regularly attends the Consultative Committee Meetings in Lyme Regis to ensure the voice of the sea angler is heard. Here's what Mike had to say; 'As I said at the meeting everyone has nothing but praise for the Reserve. The changes made over the years have improved year on year. All species of ray now feature regularly with lots of undulate ray. Plenty of plaice are there to be caught by the recreational anglers as well. Local tackle shops and angling boat hire is booming throughout the Reserve area as well. Anglers are even talking about it from outside our area, so the message is getting out there. Bleed over is also happening from the Reserve and areas closed are also improving. Because of the excellent fishing I have been asked to run some little self-drive open competitions from Beer on 9th June and 12th August – I simply like to show off the angling we have locally, which is brilliant. Thank you Blue Marine Foundation'. And thank you Mike for this great write-up and for providing some smashing photos. Keep up the good work!

Consultative Committee Meeting
24th April, 2017

Fishermen, scientists, conservationists and marine regulators gathered around the same table at the 33rd Lyme Bay Reserve Consultative Committee Meeting in Lyme Regis on Tuesday.

The packed agenda included updates on the scientific potting study conducted by  Marine Institute, updates on the chiller stores in the ports of West Bay and Lyme Regis, Schools Outreach Programme progress and achievements to date, the Lyme Bay Reserve Seafood Scheme and the Lyme Bay Project Report which is soon to be completed and available to read.

There was also a presentation by Dr Emma Sheehan from Plymouth University on a new project called RETURN (Reserve Effects Tested and Understood to validate Return) which involves two more summer surveys of Lyme Bay that will provide evidence of recovery from storms and continued protection from bottom towed fishing. This project will also include the involvement of fishermen from each of the four ports. Along with MMO (Marine Management Organisation) and IFCA (Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities) updates that ended the meeting.

As Rob Walsh a Marine Biology student from Stirling University recently quoted on our Twitter page: 'Need more collaboration, partnership and integrated management practices like this. Get people sitting in a room together and discuss goals'. We couldn't agree with you more Rob. If you are interested in the minutes from past meetings head on over to our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/download-centre/

Sustainable, hand-dived scallops from Lyme Bay Reserve
4th April, 2017

Sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured hand-dived scallops landed in Bridport Harbour earlier today from Lyme Bay Reserve. Photo taken by Southern IFCA during their fisheries patrol of the area. Head over to the website to find out how this premium product is a result of the fishermen's dedication to catch quality:

http://lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/

Pink sea fan strandings scientific paper
4th April, 2017

Plymouth University Marine Institute have released their new paper about pink sea fan strandings. Pink sea fans are a protected species of which many can be found in Lyme Bay Reserve, yet hundreds of sea fans are found on beaches around the South West UK, entangled in marine debris.

‘Starballing’ starfish may hold clue to mystery of mass strandings.
3rd April, 2017

Dr Emma Sheehan, a Research Fellow at Plymouth University Marine Institute believes they may have discovered the reason why common starfish are prone to mass beach strandings during strong wind and tide conditions. For more information head over to: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/news/starballing-starfish-may-hold-clue-to-mystery-of-mass-strandings

Plymouth University Marine Institute are project partners of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve and are currently conducting a scientific potting study to establish a better understanding of appropriate fishing levels and their effects on target species and seabed species of Lyme Bay. For more information head over to: http://lymebayreserve.co.uk/conservation-and-science/research.php

The Gallimaufry cooking up a storm
31st March, 2017

The Gallimaufry have been cooking up a storm again in their kitchen using 'Reserve Seafood' – a sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood from Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve. With dishes like Gurnard, crab, squid ink pasta & chervil and Hake fillet, cockles, capers, tomato & new potatoes, there's something for any fish-loving fan.

Schools Outreach Visit
31st March, 2017

Last week saw another successful Schools Outreach visit to The Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester, Dorset. We were invited back to deliver a bespoke presentation to the Aspiring Minds class in Year 10. The class were provided with a unique insight in to the workings of Lyme Bay Reserve with focus on the life-cycle of a lobster and the importance of ecosystem based management in Lyme Bay.

A quote from teacher Judith Wardlaw sums it up quite well, "Neville was fantastic – he is so enthusiastic and sincere in delivering such an important". If you work in education and would like a free school visit please contact our Schools Outreach Officer Nicky Mitchard:

Murray’s Fresh Fish
29th March, 2017

Lyme Bay Brill landed last night to Murray's Fresh Fish in London. 100% sustainable and caught in Lyme Bay Reserve. The pioneering and collaborative bottom-up working partnership with the fishermen of Lyme Bay, conservationists, scientists and marine regulators helps to maintain a healthy, productive and sustainable fishery.

Lyme Bay Reserve is a world leader in demonstrating that by using eco-system based management, multi-use marine protected areas can work; can deliver sustainable fisheries; and can protect and conserve reef habitats and flora and fauna. A win-win for all involved. For more information head over to: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk

Late entry to the Thomas Hardye School Poster Competition
24th March, 2017

A late entry to the poster competition from Year 9 student Joe Lyndley from The Thomas Hardye School. A commended entry which demonstrated he was engaged and listening to our marine conservation talk on the subject of 'Protecting the marine habitat – reasons, problems and solutions’. This is all part of the ongoing and ever growing Schools Outreach Programme, funded by Marks and Spencer, facilitated by the Blue Marine Foundation and run by Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve.

If you work in education and would like to book a free visit contact Nicky Mitchard our Schools Outreach Coordinator:

www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/about/schools-outreach.php



Sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood
17th March, 2017

Cracking, top quality rod & line pollack caught by the crew of KT-SAM E10 from Axmouth fishing in Lyme Bay Reserve this week. This premium product is a result of the fishermen's dedication to catch quality, whereby each fisher is signed up to the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve and is accredited to the Seafish Responsible Fishing Scheme (www.seafish.org/rfs/), which assures catch quality and fishing standards. The voluntary Codes of Conduct that each fisherman adheres to and the science which measures the results of fishing efforts in Lyme Bay informs the sustainability of the product.

For more information about this sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood head over to: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/



Porcupine Marine Natural History Society annual conference
14th March, 2017

Dr Emma Sheehan from Plymouth University Marine Institute presented her team's research in Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve on the Recovery of a Temperate Reef Assemblage in a Marine Protected Area following the Exclusion of Towed Demersal Fishing at the Porcupine Marine Natural History Society annual conference last week.

Well done Emma, Adam and the rest of the team – great work!
http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0083883

Schools Outreach visit at Milford Junior School, Yeovil
22nd February, 2017

Another successful Schools Outreach visit, this time at Milford Junior School on Wednesday 22nd February in Yeovil, Somerset. Nicky Mitchard our the Schools Outreach Coordinator was contacted by teacher Amy Bews at Milford Junior with a link to a write up of our visit by students Angel, Corey, Sebastian and Demi. Note Larry the Lobster gets lots of mentions! Here is the link to the write-up: www.milfordjuniors.com/Year-5/


Poster competition winner announced
3rd March, 2017

At the start of February we went to The Thomas Hardye School to present to the whole of Year 9 as part of our Schools Outreach Programme. The title of the presentation was “Everything is connected”, which demonstrated that there are lots of sustainable ways that fishermen from Lyme Bay Reserve can catch their fish sustainably, that the food web is complex and the marine ecosystem depends on careful management. At the end of the presentation we invited students to enter a poster competition on the theme ‘Protecting the marine habitat-reasons, problems and solutions’.

We are pleased to announce Elizabeth Fox was the overall winner with Harry McDougal and Ben Powles runners up. The photos show the winners with their posters. Left to right Andrew Ellison (Head of Science), Elizabeth Fox, Harry McDougal and Ben Powles with Dr Jeremy Rowe (Head of Biology) on the right, and these are the three winning posters.

We think the posters are fantastic and really capture the thought provoking messages communicated in the presentation – well done!

Photo by The Thomas Hardy School.


The future generation of Lyme Bay Reserve's fishing fleet
3rd March, 2017

Young Sam from fishing boat KT-SAM E10 from Axmouth, who fish in Lyme Bay Reserve is cracking on with a bit of pot repair during this wet and windy weather. Make hay while the sun shines, or rather fix pots whilst it's wet and windy! There's never a dull moment being a fisherman.



Inspecting scallop sizes off the coast of East Devon
17th February, 2017

Devon & Severn IFCA have been on patrol off the East Devon coast boarding vessels, inspecting scallop sizes and enforcing the closed area in Lyme Bay Reserve. IFCA (The Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities) lead, champion and manage a sustainable marine environment and inshore fisheries by successfully securing the right balance between social, environmental and economic benefits to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry. Head over to their website for further information: www.devonandsevernifca.gov.uk
Photos by Devon & Severn IFCA.

Busy dogfish and a starfish takes a ride!
14th February, 2017

A lot happens on the Lyme Bay seabed. With over 1,400 species of, which 41 are fished commercially, it is little wonder why Lyme Bay is called ‘England’s Coral Garden’.

This baited video clip was collected in 2016 and is currently being analysed at Plymouth University Marine Institute to look at whether increasing potting intensities are having a knock-on impact on mobile animals associated with the reef of Lyme Bay.

Among other things, this video is used to count the frequency of occurrence of certain species as well as recording all the different types of species that are seen. Occasionally you get highlights of rare species or animal interactions like these that are too good not to show everyone else!

For more information on the Scientific Potting Study head over to: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/conservation-and-science/research.php



Schools Outreach Visit
1st February, 2017

Mari Walker and Neville Copperthwaite, the Lyme Bay Education Officers ran sessions at Ash CoE Primary School over two days last week. They presented to KS2 (year 4 and 5) on Tuesday and then KS1 (Reception and years 1,2 and 3) on Wednesday. This was a fantastic opportunity for the entire school to be exposed to the messages from Lyme Bay and both the children and the staff really enjoyed the sessions.

There were lots of good questions regarding the life, which reside in the bay, from starfish and scallops to sharks and dolphins. The pupils loved getting involved in the interactive activities from scallop diving to line fishing and really enjoyed the net demonstration. They were all very excited to meet the special guest Larry the lobster. They even had parents brought in after school to meet him!



Lights, camera, action at The Thomas Hardye School
3rd February, 2017

A busy morning was had at The Thomas Hardye School on Friday talking to the whole of Year 9 about marine conservation in Lyme Bay Reserve as part of the Schools Outreach Programme.

Judging by teacher Judith Wardlaw's comments it sounds like it was a resounding success;

'We thank you all sincerely for providing such a brilliant, informative experience for our students – you put so much thought and effort into your presentation, and judging by the students’ reactions throughout, I’m sure it made a positive impact… the teacher feedback here was excellent and I know Jeremy Rowe (Head of Biology) and Andrew Ellison (Head of Science), will welcome you back next year if you want to blanket the next cohort of Year 9s. We all reflected on the warmth and enthusiasm that Neville exudes – his style is so full of ‘passion for subject’ and so genuine – really inspiring!'

We shall most certainly be seeing you next year!
Photos by Thomas Hardye School.



Ash CoE Primary School Visit
1st February, 2017

Mari Walker and Neville Copperthwaite, the Lyme Bay Education Officers ran sessions at Ash C0E primary school over two days. They presented to KS2 (year 4 and 5) on Tuesday and then KS1 (Reception and years 1,2 and 3) on Wednesday. This was a fantastic opportunity for the entire school to be exposed to the messages from Lyme Bay and both the children and the staff really enjoyed the sessions.

There were lots of good questions regarding the life, which reside in the bay, from starfish and scallops to sharks and dolphins.

The pupils loved getting involved in the interactive activities from scallop diving to line fishing and really enjoyed the net demonstration. They were all very excited to meet the special guest Larry the lobster. They even had parents brought in after school to meet him!




Budding marine conservationists in the making!
1st February, 2017

Back in September West Hill Primary School from Ottery St Mary in Devon visited Seaton Jurassic for the Devon Wildlife Trust Marine Wildlife Conference, of which the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve was a part of. During the visit each school was given a Lyme Bay Reserve Extended Learning Pack for further learning back in the class and West Hill Primary have certainly made good use of theirs!

The whole class participated in the further learning to discover more about sustainable fishing and marine conservation. The children were given three choices; sustainability, life-cycles or the commercial side of fishing. Most children who picked the commercial subject decided to cook local, sustainable fish, which also included visits to local fishmongers and fishermen and research on the internet. Some children also focused on life-cycles, focusing on Black Bream, Bass, Lemon Sole and Mackerel.

The class then presented their research to Neville Copperthwaite, the Lyme Bay Reserve Schools Outreach Officer at another planned schools outreach visit and here are some photos of the class holding up their work.

A positive outcome to both the visit to Seaton Jurassic, the Lyme Bay Reserve Extended Learning Pack and the follow-on schools outreach session.

Photos from proud teacher Anna Kemp from West Hill Primary School.


Fascinating Science Fact!
25th January, 2017

Whilst studying the Lyme Bay seabed as part of the scientific potting study, PhD student Adam Rees from Plymouth University Marine Institute doesn't just count the numbers of individuals from the towed video transects. He can also use the green scaling lasers (set at 30cm apart) to assess the height, width and area of a number of key species. Here he is measuring the width of a pink sea fan.

Head over to our website for more information about the scientific potting study: http://lymebayreserve.co.uk/conservation-and-science/research.php


From port to plate in less than 24 hours
17th January, 2017

JUST LANDED! Beautiful Skate landed in Beer, Devon this afternoon by fishing boat Sambe fishing in Lyme Bay Reserve. They are already on their way to Direct Seafoods in London for delivery to their customers tomorrow. Now that's a speedy service! From port to plate in less than 24 hours.

Head over our website to find out more about the Reserve Seafood brand, which markets the sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood of Lyme Bay: http://lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/

Photo by directseafoodslondon.co.uk.


Schools Outreach Programme Update
12th January, 2017

We're busy planning for several school visits over the coming months as part of the Lyme Bay Reserve Schools Outreach Programme. These visits provide a fascinating session exploring marine biodiversity and sustainable fishing and provides children from primary and secondary schools a unique opportunity to learn about basic marine ecology and how fishing sustainably in Lyme Bay can protect marine species and habitats for future generations.

With upcoming visits to Ash Primary School in Somerset, Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester, Milford Junior School in Yeovil and a visit to Plymouth University, we really have our work cut out!

If you work in education and would like a visit, please contact our Schools Outreach Coordinator Nicky Michard: to find out the next availability.

Photo from a recent visit to Redstart Primary School, Chard, Somerset.

Scientific Analysis of the Lyme bay Seabed
10th January, 2017

This baited video clip was collected in 2016 by the Plymouth University Marine Institute and is currently being analysed to look at whether increasing potting intensities in Lyme Bay Reserve are having a knock-on impact on mobile animals associated with the reef of Lyme Bay. Among other things, this video is used to count the frequency of occurrence of certain species as well as recording all the different types of species that are seen. Occasionally you get highlights of rare species or animal interactions like these that are too good not to show everyone else!

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