News / People
Meet Bristol’s professional mermaid
Hannah Pearl wanted to become a mermaid her whole life and is now living the dream.
The first time she tried a tail on, Hannah said it was like “going into space for the first time as an astronaut” Her instructor taught her free diving techniques and performance tricks in the Philippines.
It was a “magical experience” for Hannah who is now a professional mermaid as well as being a children’s book author, doing party appearances and campaigning against climate change.
is needed now More than ever
Hannah Pearl felt “magical” putting a tail on for the first time
Through her series of Ruby Rockpool books, Hannah aims to approach big topics of ocean conservation in a positive way.
“I find being a mermaid is the most expressive and engaging way to communicate with children without being boring or scary,” she tells Bristol24/7.
Hannah collaborated with artist Becki Rendall on her books, which she describes as being a “labour of love”, self-publishing during lockdown as a way to express her persona when she was unable to do her mermaid work.
Hannah Pearl has written two books so far featuring Ruby Rockpool
Originally from Plymouth, Hannah moved to Bristol as she felt it was a good environment for her to embody her mermaid alter ego.
ITV’s Alter Egos featured Hannah and filmed with her in Portishead Open Air Pool. But her favourite place to free dive with her tail is Vobster Quay near Frome.
“I love being there, wearing my tail. I just feel so free, so serene. It’s so relaxing. I just feel at home.”
Hannah has also triumphed in Ms Mermaid competitions, having many titles to her name and about to compete in Miss Ocean UK where she has to discuss conservation work, do pageantry, and create a recycled outfit.
The professional mermaid encourages everyone to embrace our inner personas: “If you want to do it, then you are a mermaid.”
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All photos: Hannah Griffiths
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