A local marine conservation charity opened its new visitors centre in the centre of Peel during the weekend.

Hundreds visited the new headquarters and information centre of the Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch, situated in the centre of Michael Street, Peel, on Saturday, after the centre was officially opened.

The new shop, which features educational resources and information panels on the various species of whale, dolphin and porpoises that can be seen in the waters around the Isle of Man, will be open from Wednesday to Sunday, between 10am to 4pm.

Jen Adams, the outreach and education manager for the charity, believes the new premises will help the charity reach and inform more people.

’The Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch visitors centre is a tool for raising awareness for whales, dolphins and porpoises, and what we as an organisation do on the Isle of Man,’ said Jen.

’People can find out all about the local species, how to recognise them and at what time of the year you can see them. We’ll also give hints and tips about how you can spot these animals in the sea.

’Also, you can just come in here and find out how you can get involved and find out loads more about how incredible these animals are.

’We think that being situated here, in the middle of Michael Street, is the perfect location for us,’ she added.

’We have always been based in Peel, our research vessel is in Peel, and it is a great location to be right in the middle of everything here.

’We hope that it will draw people and encourage them to come to Peel, especially visitors from across and also island residents.

’The more people that get involved, the more that you can do to further the on-going conservation of these animals by working together as a community, to report sightings and to help us conducting research scientific surveys.’

The charity thanked all the volunteers who donated furniture and helped to prepare the centre, along with Sure for providing the broadband and the Manx Lottery Trust for funding the window signs and display boards.