KEEN explorers are invited to get up close to marine life thanks to a “snorkel trail” along East Lothian’s coastline.

Established by the Scottish Wildlife Trust and the Scottish Seabird Centre, a self-led route provides an opportunity to explore life under the sea and come face to face with a diverse range of ocean creatures.

East Lothian is home to a thriving marine environment, with species to look out for including velvet swimming crabs, butterfish, scorpionfish and dead man’s fingers.

Lucky snorkellers may even be able to spot a bottlenose dolphin. Participants can follow the route along the coast at Gullane Bents, Yellowcraig, the Scottish Seabird Centre, and North Berwick’s Milsey Bay.

The trail is suitable for families and snorkellers of all abilities, with varying route options depending on level, giving everyone a chance to explore life undersea.

“Hopefully, people can have a greater appreciation of the incredible wildlife that we have under the sea, right on our coastline.

“By raising awareness of that, we really hope that people will feel that connection to nature.”

Local charity Beach Wheelchairs is also offering the hire of four-by-four beach wheelchairs to make the activity more accessible.

For those who cannot fully immerse themselves in the water, leaflets for the trail highlight several good spots for beginners teeming with wildlife along the beaches.

Often hosting guided snorkelling tours, the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick has been helping people to learn about Scotland’s marine wildlife, habitats and iconic seabirds for more than 20 years.

The Scottish Wildlife Trust warns keen snorkellers not to touch or disturb wildlife, not to enter the water in rough weather and to never snorkel alone.

Participants are also warned to be careful around lion’s mane jellyfish and weever fish, as they have a painful sting. To find out more and download a leaflet, see scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/things-to-do/snor kel-trails