PEOPLE in the North-East are being encouraged to take part in water activities to raise money to protect dolphins.

The WWF's Big Swim, during this month and June, will see people sponsored to take part in a variety of water activities to raise money for dolphins.

A spokesman for the charity said: "There are several species of dolphins living in our waters, but they and their habitats face threats from pollution, certain types of fishing nets and marine traffic and development."

People can take part in swimming, snorkelling, diving, canoeing, synchronised swimming or even a water slide-athon.

To register, call 0845-766 8860 or go to www.wwf.org.uk/bigswim