Ghost Diving multi-nation SS Mars clean-up

On 29 July 2023, a dedicated team of volunteers from Ghost Diving UK and Ghost Diving NL joined forces to tackle the issue of a massive ‘ghost net’ lurking in the depths of the North Sea. This abandoned trawler net had been causing extensive damage to marine life and disrupting the delicate ocean ecosystem.

Coming from as far as the Netherlands, these passionate volunteers traveled to England for their important mission. Their main objective was to remove a huge trawler net from the wreck of the SS Mars, located just a few miles off the coast of the picturesque St Mary’s Lighthouse Nature Reserve.

The two-day operation was no easy task! Using the dive boat Spellbinder 2 as their base, the volunteers approached the challenge with unwavering determination. On the first day, they carefully cleared the ghost net from the SS Mars wreck, which rests at a depth of 33m. The next day, they shifted their focus to the Dolphin wreck near Blyth, Northumberland, where they successfully lifted multiple gillnets.

Before undertaking this heroic feat, the volunteers conducted thorough surveys during three dives, meticulously planning the removal process. The success of the operation ensured that the ghost net was recycled through the Journey Blues net collection program at Blyth harbor, which was conveniently located within sight of both wrecks. This exemplified turning a problem into a solution!

This courageous effort by the volunteers marked a significant step towards restoring balance and safeguarding our precious marine life, while also preserving a beloved dive site in the Northeast.

Let’s extend a round of applause to the incredible team of Ghost Diving volunteers who selflessly dedicated their time and skills to this crucial cause: Jenny Staddon, Ad Groenenberg, Marcel Kersten, Andrzej Belzyt, Chris Preston, Len Cole, Dominic Willis, Nigel Aucott, and Duncan Simpson.

Special thanks go to Skipper Alan Lopez and deckhand Mark for their invaluable support throughout this mission!

Photo credit: Duncan Simpson
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