An educational course with a difference is to offer a unique opportunity for people to learn how to rescue distressed whales, dolphins and seals found on the east coast.

The course is being organised by British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) - a charity organisation dedicated to the rescue and well-being of marine animals in distress around the UK.

BDMLR will host the event at Southwold Arts Centre on Sunday (March 5) from 9.30am.

Stephen Marsh, BDMLR operations manger, said: 'Last year BDMLR attended over 870 call-outs and it's important that we train new people to keep our numbers up and to help save these incredible animals.'

The event will see lectures being held in the morning consisting of whale, dolphin and porpoise identification, first aid and rescue techniques and health and safety for all rescue work.

This is to be followed by practical sessions, in the afternoon, on how to use the correct equipment and techniques to save seals, dolphins and whales - who become distressed or injured.

Attendees will use life-sized models of the animals to carry out first aid drills in order to replicate a real life scenario.

The course fee is £90 and includes a first year's supporter fee and third party insurance cover while on a rescue.

Following the course attendees will then be qualified as marine mammal medics and could be called upon anytime 24/7 to help on a rescue.

Delegates will also receive a marine mammal medic handbook, a photo ID card, a marine mammal medic woven badge and car stickers, one year's personal and public liability insurance cover and a certificate.

Tea and coffee facilities will be available but attendees will be required to bring their own lunch.

For more information about British Divers Marine Life Rescue visit: www.bdmlr.org.uk/index.php.

Do you have a Southwold story?

Call Simon Ward on 01502 525 832 or email simon.ward@archant.co.uk