Coast watched on the web

The site includes details of coastal erosion

A virtual observatory focusing on the East Riding of Yorkshire coastal area has gone online.

The site provides the latest data and information relating to the region's coastal parishes and inshore marine environment.

Developed by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council and the University of Hull's Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, the observatory is funded as part of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan (ICZM).

The content of the site aims to provide a detailed source of information about erosion, transport, tourism, leisure, fisheries and a whole range of other issues which affect the area.

Alex Smith, who is responsible managing the ICZM process in the area said: "It is a valuable tool for anybody whether they're researching for their school geography coursework, studying for a doctorate or have a keen interest in what's in their own backyard."