THE public are being urged to get behind a bid to have an area off the North-East coast designated as a marine conservation zone.

The area off Runswick Bay, near Whitby, is brimming with fish and marine wildlife and is in the running to become officially protected under the marine and Coastal Access Act.

And the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is now pleading to people to support their efforts and join in the public consultation now underway for Runswick Bay and, further down the coast, Holderness.

North Sea Marine Advocacy Officer Dr Leigh Michael Howarth said: “We are asking everyone to respond to the government’s public consultation by the end of April.

“If you care about the marine habitats and wildlife that live within the two areas we just need you to write one letter – it’s so simple.”

Runswick Bay boasts a highly productive seabed dominated by kelps and red seaweeds which reach up into the water and wave in the currents.

Whilst the deeper areas encrusted with a living turf of sponges, sea squirts, sea urchins and starfish.

The area is also of commercial importance as it provides spawning and nursery grounds for many fish, including herring, sprat, cod, whiting and plaice.

Harbour porpoises are also regularly recorded in the area alongside foraging seabirds such as kittiwakes.

It and Holderness are among 23 possible marine conservation zones around the country and the Government consultation is due to come to an end at the end of April.

Dr Howarth said: “The Yorkshire coast is exceptionally beautiful, but our seas are just a shadow of their former selves. Our waters need protecting from highly damaging activities before it is too late.”

He added: “Whether you have fond memories of swimming in the sea as a child, walking your dog along the coast with your family, angling from a boat, or simply value the benefits a healthy marine environment can bring, it can all make a difference and the government will want to hear it.”

Letters of support can be written on-line by visiting wildlifetrusts.org/saveMCZs, emailed directly to the Government at MCZ@defra.gsi.gov.uk, or posted to the MCZ Team, c/o Post Room, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London, SW1P 3JR.