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BNPS.co.uk (01202 558833)<br />
Pic: PhilYeomans/BNPS<br />
<br />
Sightseers at Old Harry Rocks on the Jurassic coast near Poole in Dorset.<br />
<br />
Hold your horses - Alarmed conservationists are calling on the government to stop an oil rig drilling operation off the south coast because of the affect it could have on a precious seahorse colony.<br />
<br />
The 100m high platform is currently drilling an appraisal well for oil deep under Poole Bay, Dorset, which forms part of Britain's UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast.<br />
<br />
Shallow areas of the bay are a well known breeding ground for both the native breeds of seahorses which are a heavily protected species.<br />
<br />
But at this time of year the mystical creatures over-winter in deeper waters close to where the ENSCO 72 rig is positioned.<br />
<br />
Its arrival has sparked anger with not only environmentalists but also many residents of Bournemouth who can clearly see the 250ft wide platform from its famous seafront.

BNPS.co.uk (01202 558833)
Pic: PhilYeomans/BNPS

Sightseers at Old Harry Rocks on the Jurassic coast near Poole in Dorset.

Hold your horses - Alarmed conservationists are calling on the government to stop an oil rig drilling operation off the south coast because of the affect it could have on a precious seahorse colony.

The 100m high platform is currently drilling an appraisal well for oil deep under Poole Bay, Dorset, which forms part of Britain's UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast.

Shallow areas of the bay are a well known breeding ground for both the native breeds of seahorses which are a heavily protected species.

But at this time of year the mystical creatures over-winter in deeper waters close to where the ENSCO 72 rig is positioned.

Its arrival has sparked anger with not only environmentalists but also many residents of Bournemouth who can clearly see the 250ft wide platform from its famous seafront.