Warnings of dangers after crowds flock to see seal on Cleethorpes beach

Seal on Cleethorpes beach
People with children and dogs were seen getting close to the animal on Boxing Day. Credit: Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue

Volunteers have warned people not to treat "unpredictable" seals as a sight-seeing attraction after crowds were seen getting close to one of the animals on a beach in Lincolnshire.

Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue said it put up a cordon on Cleethorpes beach after reports of "adults, children, and dogs" approaching the grey seal on Boxing Day.

A spokesperson said: "We sent volunteers to the location and were shocked to see adults encouraging children to get within a couple of metres of this large grey seal.

"It's important to remember that these are wild animals. They are unpredictable, can move surprisingly fast, are incredibly strong, and have a nasty bite. Approaching them in this manner puts both you and the seal at risk."

A cordon was erected to keep people away. Credit: Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue

Seals use beaches to rest, often between tides. In most cases they do not require help.

The seal returned to sea as darkness fell and the cordon was removed.

The rescue group thanked people who helped its volunteers.

It advised people keep at least 100m from resting seals, keep dogs on leads and stay quiet to avoid disturbing them.

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