Profile

I spend lots of time out and about around the north east on days out with my family. I do yoga at least once a week and want to try and improve my skills there. I go away on bike tours to Scotland usually once a year and camp in the middle of nowhere and cover lots of miles. I’m part of a local men’s workout group that meets (up to!) 4 times a week at 6am, which can be a bit of a push sometimes. I’m also looking to get more involved in running as I’ve registered for the Great North Run later this year.

I’m a marine restoration and engagement officer with the Wild Oysters Project. We’re a charity working to bring back the Native Oyster to Tyne & Wear in the North East of England, because this important shellfish has almost completely disappeared from our coast.

Native oysters used to be everywhere around Europe and were amazing for the ocean. They clean the water by filtering huge amounts every day, and when lots of oysters grow together, they build “oyster reefs” — a bit like coral reefs — that become homes for loads of sea creatures. These reefs even help protect the coastline. But after many years of heavy fishing, almost all the oysters were removed, and now only a few are left. Our project is trying different ways to help oyster reefs return.

My job is all about teaching and involving people. I run volunteer groups, visit schools, help at events, and try to get everyone excited about oysters and how we can look after our seas.