Dorset’s endangered seahorses have a new champion in south-west MEP Julie Girling, who is taking their case to the European Parliament.

Studland and Poole Harbour are important breeding areas for both the short-snouted and spiny species, which live in seagrass meadows.

“We are involved in a number of studies along the south west coast, specifically around the Studland Bay area,” said Neil Garrick-Maidment, executive director of the Seahorse Trust.

“Julie has been really keen to learn all about the seahorses and their habitat. If we don’t look to take action to protect seagrass meadows and seahorses, then on some parts of the coast, they may disappear forever.”

Julie said: “It is entirely unacceptable that species are being endangered by an entirely avoidable threat. I want to know if the commission intends to conduct any future studies specifically regarding the loss of seagrass habitats, and also what action they will take to ensure the protection and conservation of seagrass habitats and species.”