Essex Wildlife Trust has unveiled a wall mural in Walton-on-the-Naze to raise awareness of marine and coastal wildlife along Essex’s coastline.  

The mural marks the start of National Marine Week (26 July – 10 August), a two-week campaign celebrated across the Wildlife Trust movement.   

The mural highlights native oysters, seagrass, a harbour seal, moon jellyfish, as well as a little tern flying overhead, all icons of Essex’s coast and all animals and habitats Essex Wildlife Trust is working to protect and restore.  

Tendring District Council are supporting the mural by offering the space for the artwork. The mural is located on the side of the council-owned Beach Patrol office in Walton.  

During National Marine Week, Essex Wildlife Trust is running a series of events and activities for the public to connect with their coastline. Activities include a kite festival, beach cleans, fossil hunts and an art competition for all ages.  

For all event and competition details, visit www.essexwt.org.uk/get-involved/campaign/national-marine-week 

Adam Nixon, Coastal Recovery Officer, for Essex Wildlife Trust, said:  

“Our coastline is full of incredible wildlife above and below the waves but it can be difficult to know what lives in our waters. National Marine Week is a chance for the Trust to connect people with their local marine life, and we’re hoping this mural highlights the wildlife that lives on Essex’s coast. We’ve got an exciting programme of events and activities across National Marine Week and we hope to see the public getting involved.”  

Councillor Mick Barry, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Realm, said:  

“We’re thrilled to be supporting this fantastic mural project in Walton, which will bring a splash of colour and creativity to our coastline while celebrating the rich marine life that makes this part of the Essex Sunshine Coast so special. We can’t wait to see the conversations it sparks about our incredible local wildlife.” 

Councillor Gary Scott, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, added:  

“We are proud to work alongside partners like Essex Wildlife Trust to champion our natural environment, enhance the quality of life for our residents, and showcase our unique coastal heritage. Creative projects like this not only inspire pride in our communities but also help attract visitors, encouraging them to explore more of what Tendring has to offer and stay longer.” 

Dave Gnash, of Gnasher Murals, said: 

“I’m excited for this mural with Essex Wildlife Trust, especially in Walton-on-the-Naze where I have lots of great holiday memories. I hope this artwork really brings to life the marine and coastal environments we have here, for the people that live locally and those visiting from further away. ”