A SERIES of talks by various experts on the damaging effects of climate change will begin next week.

'Help Our Planet', a series of monthly lectures from environmental specialists, will begin at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis from June 1.

The lectures will cover topics such as butterfly conservation, the effect of climate change on marine life in the English Channel, marine reserves, the preservation of tropical rain forests, saving coral reefs and managing protected sites and reserves.

The talks will be given by experts including marine biologists, ecologists, climatologists, botanists and geologists. The series will begin with a talk titled 'Tropical Rainforest Destruction: A Major Cause of Climate Change' by Sir Ghillean Prance, a professor and former director of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, who lives in Lyme Regis.

A spokesman for the event said: "The speakers will all explain the causes of climate change and the adverse effect it is having on the local environment and on the health of the planet. They will explain some of the many things that you as an individual, and local communities, can do to help mitigate the effects of climate change.

"All events will include a panel discussion with well-known experts and an open discussion. Over the coming months those attending will be able to share the expertise and their own enthusiasm with others from west Dorset."

Some talks will be given by a live speaker and others will be pre-recorded and screened in the theatre.

A spokesman said: "All the lecturers in this series have agreed to waive their usual fee and donate the money to a charity of their choosing.

"We will invite you to add to these donations if you so wish when you come to the talks in Lyme Regis, or download the free filmed version from the internet later."

A spokesman for the Marine Theatre added: "Featuring world leading scientists and writers, all are welcome at the monthly Help Our Planet Talks. The events centre on environmental issues, emphasising positive solutions for the individual."

The lectures will take place on the first week of every month. For more information, visit the Marine Theatre website.