The natterjack toad – one of Britain’s rarest amphibians – gained a new supporter today. Damien Moore, MP for Southport, has kindly agreed to be the Species Champion for this amazing animal. ARC is delighted to welcome Damien to his new role, and we look forward to working with him to progress natterjack toad conservation. Damien’s constituency includes the area covered by the “Gems in the Dunes” project, which will deliver massive gains for sand dune species including the natterjack toad as part of Back from the Brink. 

Damien Moore MP (right) discusses natterjack toad conservation with ARC's Jim Foster and Fiona Sunners. Photo: Daniel Dewhurst

Speaking to local media, Damien said:

I think it’s great that we can really start to see the work which has been going on at the Discovery Centre, plus the huge difference the Back from the Brink funding will have had on local conservationism.

I’m more than happy to play my role in supporting this project and to raise awareness of the Ainsdale Discovery Centre and their work. The Natterjack Toad will be well championed.

The Species Champions project is run by a partnership of wildlife charities, and you can find out more about it via the project website. ARC would like to thank John Pugh, the previous natterjack toad champion, for his support.