Coastguards were called to investigate a dead dolphin washed up at West Bay.

Officers attended East Beach just after 11am on Saturday.

A spokesman for West Bay Coastguard said: "The animal was identified as a young male dolphin rather than a common harbour Porpoise, due to its hooked dorsal fin and cone shaped teeth.

"Dolphins, porpoises and whales are all protected under the Royal Fish Laws of the United Kingdom and HM Coastguard undertakes duties on behalf of the Receiver of a Wreck to record details of Royal Fish washed ashore.

"Details including full measurements, tooth count, sex, dorsal, pectoral & fluke condition as well as notable injuries were all recorded on paperwork which is destined for the Natural History Museum for analysis.

"Onward recovery and disposal was sought by Solent Coastguard via the local authorities.

"Stay Safe on the coast. But if you find yourself in difficulty or if you are concerned for others, do not hesitate, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard."