AN animal trust is appealing for help in breathing new life into dying seas.

Durham members of the Wildlife Trust have already helped to raise more than £90,000 for its Marine Appeal.

The organisation aims to save porpoises, dolphins and other sea creatures from pollution and over-fishing.

The appeal is backed by the trust's president, botanist David Bellamy, and the round-the-world yachtswoman, Ell-en MacArthur.

Donations are already coming in from people throughout County Durham, and the appeal is on target to raise £120,000.

But to fully achieve its aims, the trust must find £250,000 from members, the public and companies.

Joan Edwards, UK marine manager, said: "Funding is desperately short, which is why we have launched this Marine Appeal asking people for their support."

Appeal organisers hope to fund coastal management, essential research and survey work, and the development of a "pinger" device to stop dolphins and porpoises from straying into fishing nets.

They also plan to lobby the Government better to protect marine life and encourage sustainable fishing.

Cheques to the appeal should be made payable to The Wildlife Trust's Marine Appeal and sent to The Kiln, Waterside, Mather Road, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 1WT.