Leading local wildlife charity Cornwall Wildlife Trust was delighted for part of their marine non-native species collection to receive a royal viewing from Royal Yachting Association President, HRH The Princess Royal, during her visit to the London Boat Show last month.

The collection was loaned to The Green Blue - a joint environmental project between the Royal Yachting Association and British Marine Federation - to form part of an educational display showcasing the growing issue of the introductions of non-native species to UK waters and the damage they can cause.

Lisa Rennocks, marine invasive species project officer for Cornwall Wildlife Trust, worked with local artist Sarah McCartney to produce the collection of illustrated and embedded marine non-native animals and seaweed species. It forms part of an educational resource to help raise awareness of the threats posed when non-native species are introduced to areas outside of their natural range.

Lisa said: “We were thrilled to hear that the merits of our collection had reached The Green Blue and very excited for some of the specimens to be incorporated into a unique and eye catching feature on the Royal Yachting Association's display.”

The Princess Royal, a keen sailor, expressed an interest in the species on display and received advice from Jane Swan, The Green Blue Project Manager, as to what action boaters could take. 

Jane said: “The key message for boaters to take away was to remember to remove any biofouling when leaving a berth or anchorage. For smaller boats, the key is to check, clean, dry all equipment, sails and clothing to minimise spread.”                        

Lisa added: “Reaching such a large audience at these major events is a fantastic way to engage the public and raise awareness. We are more than happy to continue our collaboration and have agreed for our infamous five – the leathery sea squirt, wakame, wireweed, slipper limpet and zebra mussel to accompany The Green Blue to the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show in February.