Seal spotted on East Sussex beach for fifth day running

The seal, an elderly male, has been spotted on the city's beaches for the past few days.

Today it has been seen near Brighton Marina and has since moved back into the sea.

Paul Crabtree a Medic at British Divers Marine Life Rescue said: “We have been monitoring him since he arrived on the beach - it is quite normal behaviour for seals to come ashore to rest and digest food. There are no obvious signs of injury or disease so there is no need for concern. The large seal will come and go as he pleases - he is a welcome visitor and very cool to observe.

"Please do so from a distance, even if there are no barriers in place, and remember to keep dogs on leads. Don't be tempted to approach him for a 'sealfie' - although he may seem very docile, a large male can deliver a nasty bite if agitated and seals can carry lot's of diseases!

“There is no need to try and usher him back to the sea - at best this could cause stress to the animal, at worst you could be seriously injured.

“There is a possibility the seal will return again - If you are concerned about him, or his behaviour changes, you can call us on 01825 765546 - the main switchboard will put a call out to any local Marine Mamal Medics in the area who can attend and assess further.”