A NEW voluntary code of conduct for bait collection in the Solent has been launched to help protect the area's wildlife.

The code has been developed by the Solent European Marine Sites (SEMS) project and aims to ensure there is enough bait for everyone who collects it in and around the Solent.

The project is part-funded by Hampshire County Council and developed by the authority in conjunction with other bodies associated with the Solent.

The council's executive member for environment Councillor Keith Estlin said: "The coastline of the Solent contains the largest, most tightly clustered area of small estuaries anywhere in Britain and is one of the few sheltered channels in the UK.

"The invertebrates which live in the sediment are an essential food supply for the birds, fish, crabs and shrimps that feed on them, and sustainable bait collection is vital if the natural habitat is to be preserved."

Tony Williams from the National Federation of Sea Anglers said: "The SEMS bait code is probably the most complete guide that has been produced to date.

"The new code is based on the original NFSA code with one significant advance which clarifies the situation regarding anglers gathering bait to share with family and friends."

William McKenzie from English Nature said: "We're pleased with the code and the way it has been produced, as it's vital people respect and understand the environment in which they work."