Hundreds raised for memorial to Danny the dolphin

A raffle is to be held this week in a bid to raise more money towards the fund, with the aim of raising awareness of how to prevent further dolphin deaths.

As reported, majestic Danny the bottlenose dolphin was a much-loved member of the community and was regularly sighted around Weymouth Beach, where he would entertain people, appearing to seek out the company of humans.

That was until his death in October, when he was hit by a boat at Portland Harbour - prompting an outpouring of grief from the local community and wildlife lovers.

A memorial fund was launched soon afterwards through charity, Marine Connection, with the aim of raising awareness of the need to protect marine life, as well as giving people a way to remember Danny.

Liz Sandeman, co-founder of Marine Connection, urged more people to donate, explaining that the memorial will carry an important educational message.

She said: “I’ve been working with Portland Marina to plan how best to use the funds raised, and we will be holding a licensed raffle this week to raise more funds.

“We had a company donate £100 which was really lovely. The donations are trickling in and we’ve got prizes lined up for the raffle so hopefully that will bring in a little bit more money.”

Liz explained that the memorial could consist of a wooden plinth with a metal educational plaque, although a final design is yet to be decided.

She added: “The support has been really good. We’re also thinking of holding an online event with speakers to share educational messages about protecting marine life and basically to boost people’s morale. There’s lots of ideas coming together.”

To donate to Danny’s fund, visit the Marine Connection website at marineconnection.org To ensure that donations are earmarked for Danny’s fund, please enter the code ‘DD2020’ when making your donation. Further details of the fundraising raffle will be released shortly.