Past

BDMLR was formed in 1988, when a few like minded divers got together in response to the mass mortality of Harbour seals in the Wash area of East Anglia, to do what they could for the rescue effort.

From these early beginnings, they gained further knowledge of marine wildlife and acquired valuable training in rescue techniques. BDMLR now provide a committed 24 hour marine animal rescue service.

BDMLR now train over 400 volunteer Marine Mammal Medics a year and have 20 whale rescue pontoons located at strategic points throughout the UK, waiting to help stranded whales and dolphins.

Present

Our teams are on standby to respond immediately to any marine disaster or marine mammal stranding anywhere in the UK. All our volunteers regularly train to refresh rescue techniques and meet socially to keep in touch with each other and raise funds.

Thirteen Marine Animal Rescue Ambulances are sited throughout the UK ready to be sent to an incident. We also have four Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) which can be on site anywhere in the UK within 24hrs.

To see where our rescue equipment and local co-ordinators are based click the Area Coordinators button.

BDMLR are proud to be an entirely voluntary organisation.

Future

We need more Marine Mammal Medics to join our rescue teams throughout the U.K. to continue the vital first response. To find out more about becoming a Medic, click the training link. Importantly, you do not have to be a diver.

BDMLR Marine Mammal Medics in September 2003, attending a Common dolphin at Godrevy, North Cornwall.

Of course, you may not want to be so 'hands on' but still wish to help and be involved. Becoming a member of BDMLR is another vital role, where many of our teams need support in other areas, fund-raising, social events etc. To find out more about becoming a member click the membership link.