The National Trust marked 50 years of its Save the Coastline campaign with a projection of Neptune across the White Cliffs of Dover.

Neptune, the god of the sea, was projected on to the famous cliffs and captured in a series of still imagery and stop animation film to remind everyone of the awe-inspiring coastal experiences in Britain.

The campaign was launched in May 1965 and has resulted in the National Trust gaining 775 miles of coast in England, Wales and North Ireland.

White Cliffs general manager Virginia Portman said: ‘‘Looking after the White Cliffs of Dover is a privilege and a big responsibility.

“The cliffs are an iconic symbol of Great Britain, visited by people from all over the world.

“They’re an example of rare chalk grassland habitat, home to many endangered species of plant and animal life, so it’s critical we continue to care for this important piece of land.

“Without the support of the National Trust’s Neptune coastline campaign the challenges would have been so much greater. We’re delighted that the White Cliffs have been chosen as the backdrop to highlight the trust’s care and protection of our coastline in this innovative way.”

Using multiple cameras on a trigger system, the animation took a crew of seven technicians two nights to film from the Port of Dover. The animation consists of 225 images, taken with a long exposure of up to five seconds.

Kelly Eagle, of Projection Artworks, said: “This type of stop-motion animation has never been done before with this projection technique – let alone to this incredible scale. The White Cliffs of Dover provided the added drama and majesty to set the scene.”

Neptune’s projection on the White Cliffs marks the start of the National Trust’s summer of coast, a six-month campaign that will highlight the power of the coast.

This year also sees the trust announce a new coastal vision for the future.

To find a coast event in your area visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/london-and-south-east/ or share your love of the coast with the National Trust by using #lovethecoast.