Campaigning nationally and internationally for the welfare, protection and conservation of dolphins, whales and porpoises the Marine Connection is a small but very effective cetacean charity.

Passionate about the welfare and protection of all cetaceans, the charity never ignores urgent pleas to act on behalf of all dolphins and whales; and has contributed to many important victories to stop individual animals' suffering and destruction of their natural habitat.

Our ultimate goal is to ensure global protection of these magnificent marine mammals, put an end to them being held in captivity and stop captures from the wild.

	Margaux first became involved in campaigning for dolphins and whales in the late 1980’s/early 1990’s when actively participating in helping to close the last marine parks in the UK holding captive cetaceans. Working in Marine Connection Margaux networks with colleagues around the world on all cetacean issues; although working mainly on captivity issues one area she specialises in is solitary/social cetaceans; and has produced a comprehensive guide entitled ‘Lone Rangers’, the first report of its' kind focusing on these enigmatic mammals.
Margaux Dodds Co-founder

	Liz first became interested in dolphin conservation over 20 years ago after visiting a wild dolphin in Ireland. Wanting to help make a difference to the daily lives of these marine mammals, she worked voluntarily for marine mammal organisations. Feeling particuarly against keeping these animals in captivity, Liz joined a group of volunteers campaigning to close one of the UK’s last remaining dolphinariums. The knowedge of, and interest in, cetacean issues over the years resulted in her establishing the Marine Connection to address dolphin and whale issues on a global scale.
Liz Sandeman Co-founder

	Alan is also Chief Executive of International Animal Rescue, a UK based charity helping to stop the suffering of animals around the globe. Awarded an OBE for his services to animal welfare in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June 2006, he has a passion for diving and combines this hobby with his love of animals through the charity British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), of which he is chairman.
Alan Knight OBE Trustee

	Liz is Executive Director of Catastrophies, a sanctuary giving outstanding care, love and much needed shelter to unwanted cats. Working in both the UK and overseas, Liz is often invited to an area by local residents concerned by growing numbers of feral cats. Leading a team of volunteers including a vet and vet nurses, the experienced care and total dedication shown by Liz and her team ensures that any animal in their care is assurred of the best possible opportunity of ensuring their health and wellbeing.
Liz Varney Trustee

	Rachel has been CEO of Wildlife Trusts Wales (WTW) since 2011 and has worked for the Wildlife Trust movement in both Wales and England for the last ten years. Prior to this she worked in the community sector in Ireland for five years. Her conservation career started as the LBAP officer for Herefordshire, moving to Avon Wildlife Trust to become their Head of Biodiversity. She then became CEO for Herefordshire and then Brecknock Wildlife Trusts.
Rachel Sharp Trustee

David Essex OBE Patron		Lee Everett-Alkin Patron