There's a chance to have your say this evening on plans to designate a protected area of sea around the Island for marine conservation.

The topic will be up for discussion at the first of eight public meetings, in different towns and villages.

Fisheries officers believe sea life would thrive in such an environment, but want locals to help choose a suitable location to ensure well known species, such as basking sharks and Risso's dolphins, are protected for future generations.

Today's meeting is at the Erin Arts Centre in Port Erin, from 8pm.

More information is available from DAFF's marine wildlife and conservation officer Fiona Gell, who you can email at fiona.gell@gov.im or ring on 843109.

(Picture: The Erin Arts Centre, from iomguide.com).