Marra was moved from the harbour in a major rescue operation

Members of British Divers Marine Life Rescue have been involved in a number of rescues in recent months, including Marra the dolphin at Maryport.

There are currently about 10 members in the county, but it is hoped public interest in the rescues will encourage more people to join.

The organisation is holding a training day in Maryport on 5 August.

Jenny Watkins is the group's Cumbrian co-ordinator and has been a member since 2000. She is a diver, but said you do not need to be in order to get involved.

Most of the members have full time jobs and fit in rescues with those. It is hoped to increase the number from 10 to 30.

It had been hoped the dolphin would get out at high tide

Among the rescues they have been involved with were the dolphin Marra after he became stranded in Maryport harbour earlier this year.

Last weekend, they were involved in trying to rescue a dolphin which became trapped in shallow water at Arnside, near Grange-over-Sands. Unfortunately the animal had to be put to sleep after it became clear it could not support itself.

Mrs Watkins said: "When I learnt to dive I little imagined it would take me to where I am now.

"It's a fantastic experience. I think it's just the fact that you are trying to help an animal that can't help itself. I feel privileged to be able to offer help."

Mrs Watkins said she was learning all the time and there was a good support network, including vets, to give advice on treating animals. She said there was also support from organisations like the coastguard and RNLI.

She said when they were called to rescues, there was also strong support and interest from the public.

Part of the training day in Maryport on 5 August, which costs �60, will involve an inflatable whale and dolphin filled with water which they practice rescuing.