Film raising awareness of issues of wildlife disturbance on Cumbria coastline wins special award for final-year University of Cumbria students
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A new short film – produced by two University of Cumbria students – on the urgent issue of wildlife disturbance has won an award for its discussions on protecting nature and its inhabitants. Featuring in Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s ‘Detect and Protect’ campaign, the film educates the public on how to interact responsibly with wildlife, particularly around the South Walney and Foulney Island Nature Reserves.
Located just off the coast of Barrow-in-Furness, South Walney Nature Reserve is home to Cumbria’s only grey seal breeding colony and supports a rich diversity of birdlife including gulls, oystercatchers, Arctic terns. As well as this, it is home to the the rare little tern, one of the UK’s most threatened seabirds. However, these sensitive habitats are under increased pressure due to human disturbance, particularly during critical breeding and pupping seasons.
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Film-makers Isobel Drake and Poppy Hothem have been recognised for their skills and talent at University of Cumbria graduations, honoured with the Industry and Entrepreneurship prize awarded by its Institute of Education, Arts and Society.
‘It has been a real privilege to work alongside Cumbria Wildlife Trust on a real film brief to inform and educate the general public about wildlife disturbances,’ said Isobel Drake. ‘It is important for individuals to be aware about the harm caused by close human contact.’
‘This film aims to showcase the fascinating wildlife at South Walney, encouraging viewers to admire nature’s beauty from a respectful distance and build a deeper emotional connection with it,’ Drake continued.
The students’ work has not only earned them accolades at graduation but is also actively being used by Cumbria Wildlife Trust to support its education and outreach work. In addition, the film was showcased at the Cumbrian Filmmaker Showcase, a special edition of Penrith Green Screen, held earlier this month.
