DORSET Wildlife Trust (DWT) is set to launch a new Seahorse Adoption Scheme, in a bid to better protect the vulnerable species.

The scheme, which will be launched officially at the Dorset County Show this weekend, comes after reports showed marine wildlife in Dorset is struggling, says the DWT.

The organisation's living seas manager Peter Tinsley said: "Like many marine habitats, ecosystems which support the seahorse population are in decline, due to pollution, unsustainable fishing and climate change.

"By adopting a seahorse your donation will help provide the vital funding required to secure a brighter future for our seas, which can then be enjoyed for many generations to come."

For a one-off donation of £20, adopters will receive a certificate, a seahorse fact sheet, marine conservation leaflet, pin badge and a soft toy seahorse.

All profits from the adoptions will go towards the Dorset marine Conservation Fund, which was launched by DWT.

The first ten people on each day of the Dorset County Show, Dorchester Show Ground, will also receive the book, Concise Seashore Wildlife Guide, free of charge.

Dorset County Show communications manager Tony McDougal said: "I am delighted that DWT has chosen the Dorset County Show to launch its important Seahorse Adoption Scheme.

"Dorset has a fabulous marine environment and it is vital that we all protect and enhance conditions for our endangered coastal species."

The Dorset coast is home to both species of seahorse found in the UK - the short-snouted seahorse and the spiny seahorse.

DWT, founded in 1961, is now the largest voluntary nature conservation organisation in the county, boasting more than 25,000 members and more than 40 nature reserves.