Reepham WI met in St Michael’s on Thursday 21 October and members were delighted to welcome Rob Spray, who came to talk about “The Hidden Treasures of Norfolk’s Secret Sea”.

Rob provided an entertaining and engaging talk about the marine wildlife to be found off the Norfolk coast, and his experience of diving for Seasearch – a project for recreational divers who collect and submit data, helping to audit marine wildlife and aid conservation.

Photo: Rob Spray

There was an interactive photo quiz of some exotic-looking creatures that might be expected to inhabit warm, clear tropical waters, but in fact are at home in the murkier, cold North Sea around Sheringham and Cromer.

Whether colourful anemones, frilly sea slugs, sunburst star fish or the aptly named “sea squirts”, Rob had an interesting story to tell.

His enthusiasm for the work he and colleagues do to help preserve these special creatures was very evident – Reepham WI attendees now have a greater awareness and appreciation of the fascinating biodiversity of our local coast.

Reepham WI meets on the third Thursday of every month in St Michael’s, Reepham. Meetings currently start at 7.15 pm. Visitors and potential new members are welcome to attend.