The Cornish Seal Sanctuary has officially launched a new £1.3 million fundraising campaign, as part of a major redevelopment project at the charity’s site in Gweek.

The campaign, dubbed ‘Fund Our Future’, is all about raising vital funds to futureproof the Sanctuary and provide world-class facilities for seal conservation for the next generation.

As part of the project, the charity will be replacing four pools currently on site over the next two years in one of the biggest redevelopment projects the charity has seen in its 64-year history.

From a state-of-the-art filtration system, to improved access for the animal care team, the new pools will be centred around exceeding all recommended standards in marine mammal care to date.

Jana Sirova, head of sanctuaries at Sea Life Trust, said: “With more than 60 years already under our belts, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary is embedded into the hearts of our local residents and guests alike.

“From grandparents who remember visiting as children, to the youngsters now coming through our doors for the first time, our work continues to inspire generations to care for and support our wild marine species.

“This campaign, one of our biggest to date, is all about safeguarding our future and putting the Cornish Seal Sanctuary at the heart of world-class animal welfare for years to come, allowing us to remain as world-leaders in seal conservation and care.”

With the launch of the campaign, the charity is now appealing to supporters and the wider community to help them reach their fundraising target.

Every penny raised from the campaign will go towards building these essential facilities, so the charity can continue to provide expert animal care and educate communities about the marine conservation.

The new development will also see a brand-new underwater viewing area with seating, as well as increased education spaces to build community engagement with schools and organisations across Cornwall and beyond.

For details on how to donate to the campaign, click here.