The Manx Lottery Trust has donated £2,000 towards the opening of the island’s first marine animal visitors’ centre.

The centre, due to open next year, is being created by Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch.

The centre, which is to be based in Michael Street, Peel, will seek to educate the public on marine species commonly seen in Manx waters.

The charity will also use the centre as its main base as it continues its research into marine species and how to protect whales, dolphins and porpoises.

Admission will be free and visitors will be able to find information on local species, a collection of bones and skeletons and a life-size inflatable harbour porpoise, similar to some which featured at the charity’s event at the Villa Marina earlier this year.

Also included will be a library with a selection of literature and scientific papers as well as an educational activity and craft area for children.

Jen Adams, from Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch, said: ’We are delighted to get started on this exciting project which will be of great benefit to our island.

’Once the centre is up and running we will use it to raise awareness of the wonderful array of creatures in Manx waters and the importance of marine habitat.

’We also hope to use the space to run training workshops to educate and enlighten locals and visitors.’

She added: ’I’d like to say a big thank you to the Manx Lottery Trust for its support of the Whale and Dolphin Visitors Centre. Its funding is hugely appreciated and will relieve financial pressures, giving the centre the best possible chance of succeeding.’

For more information on Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch, search for the charity on Facebook, visit www.mwdw.net, call 844686 or email [email protected]

The chairman of the Manx Lottery Trust, Sarah Kelly. added: ’Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch is key to marine research and awareness in the Isle of Man, and we are pleased to support the development of the new visitor centre.’