The Chagos Islands – What, where and why? by Richard Martin
The Chagos Islands or British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) comprises 55 islands in the central Indian Ocean, surrounded by a huge no-take Marine Protected Area declared in 2010 – at the time, the largest in the world. This MPA protects the cleanest seawater ever tested worldwide, and the complete absence of fishing gives it an exceptionally rich biodiversity.
The only inhabited island is Diego Garcia, by far the largest in the archipelago. Richard Martin, who spent a year there, explains the importance both ecological and political of this extraordinary place.
His talk will be in the Fane Hall, Corton, on Friday 6th March. Doors open 6.00pm, talk starts at 6.30, followed by a two-course supper. Seats £15 a head; please bring your own drinks and glasses.
The Fane Hall can only seat about 35, so places will be limited. Please make your bookings a.s.a.p. – preferably by Monday 20th February – to ensure your seats.
Bookings to Trish Nimmo (trishnimmo@icloud.com or 01985 851214) and payment, please, by Monday 2nd March – by cash or by BACS to the Fane Hall, sort code 30-99-13, account no. 0031 9898. If paying by BACS, please let Trish know.
We look forward to seeing you there!