Families release 300 baby lobsters into the sea

Three hundred baby lobsters have been released into the sea off Newquay as part of a long-term project to increase the population.

The National Lobster Hatchery in Cornwall has been releasing lobsters that have developed past the larval stage for 26 years, said Newquay Beach Care.

The group, which is part of Newquay Marine Group, worked with the hatchery and Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay to run a community beach clean alongside the release on Wednesday.

It said about 200 people joined in with 73kg of litter collected from Little Fistral Beach and for "the opportunity to learn more about marine conservation and the importance of protecting local ecosystems".

Newquay Beach Care said: "With sunshine, strong community spirit, and people of all ages getting involved, the event was a fantastic success and highlighted the positive impact local communities can have when working together to protect the environment."

Abby Wheston, group leader of Newquay Beach Care, said: "People seem to care a lot more about the environment and animals when they can see first hand.

"By releasing that baby, they are able to have a first-hand experience and connection which increases their love for the environment and want to protect it."

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