Bracklesham Bay

An exciting new exhibition is opening on Saturday 5th July at Emsworth Museum. The exhibition dives beneath the surface of our local waters to give a glimpse of the amazing wildlife that lives beneath the waves.

The exhibition called 'What Lies Beneath' features underwater photography from within Chichester Harbour. All the photographs were taken as part of a recent subtidal survey which discovered 220 different species of plants and animals and 34 different types of habitats. The divers were amazed at both the wealth of life and the healthy condition of the habitats.

In addition to the photographs, the exhibition features information on some of the key species. Video footage also taken by the divers will be on show on the museum's new 32" flat screen television. Chichester Sub-Aqua Club have donated dive equipment and artefacts they have recovered during local dives.

Ali Beckett who has organised the exhibition said, 'The divers found that under the water it is crowded with life. Pontoon pilings and mooring chains are covered with a wealth of colourful seaweeds. Reefs of native oysters provide homes for bright red sea squirts, hydroids and sponges. The exhibition goes some way towards providing a glimpse of this fascinating world which is right on our doorstep.'

The exhibition is on at Emsworth Museum from the 5th to the 27th July. The museum is open Saturdays 10:30 - 4:30 and Sundays 2:30 - 4:30. Viewings can be arranged at other times for groups, call Dorothy Bone 01243 373780.