DORSET Wildlife Trust is encouraging local people to support the wildlife and wild spaces.

To tackle the financial hole left by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Trust is offering one year’s membership for half price this January.

Dorset’s wildlife is also at great risk from the devastating effects of climate change, the ecological crisis, and the Covid-19 pandemic, which has prevented volunteer work from taking place for the majority of 2020.

The conservation charity's support care officer, Nancy Taylor said: “In 2021 the importance of nature in our lives has never been clearer.

"People have reconnected with the natural world on their doorstep, appreciating the positive impact of nature on their wellbeing.

"But our wildlife is disappearing at an alarming rate.

"Some of our most-loved species are threatened, with 26% of UK mammals in danger of disappearing altogether and hedgehogs, red squirrels, bats, turtle doves, cuckoo, water voles and basking sharks all at risk.

"By becoming a member, you directly contribute to protecting the habitats of endangered species in Dorset."

For more on this, visit: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/become-member