Whale dies on Sussex beach after washing up injured

Photos and video footage taken on Rustington beach on Saturday (August 19) showed an injured northern bottlenose whale at Rustington.

Watched by a crowd of on-lookers, rescue teams were trying to save the sea mammal, which reportedly washed up alive but with injuries.

The Littlehampton Coastguard Rescue Team, which remained at the scene this morning with a vet from British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) – issued a statement earlier today.

“Unfortunately it was not possible to get the whale back into the sea – sadly it has now passed away,” a Coastguard spokesperson said.

"The council will be attempting to recover the whale this morning.

“We are asking members of the public to stay away and remain behind the cordons. We are also asking dog walkers to ensure they keep their dogs on leads whilst passing the area.”

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said it is not yet clear what caused the whale’s death.

The alarm was raised by beachgoers at about 1.30pm on Saturday, with the British Divers Marine Life Rescue quickly in attendance with Coastguard teams.

According to an eye-witness, local residents were helping the rescue effort. Rescuers believed the young whale was male.

In a statement on Saturday evening, before the news the sea creature had died, Arun District Council said: “A northern bottle nose whale has washed ashore on one of our beaches.

“Marine specialists are on site and taking care of it, along with the help of the Coastguards.

“We know this is an interesting incident but it is important that we leave the team to do their job and look after the whale.

“It is thought that it isn't in the best of health so please be respectful of this beautiful creature and those caring for it.”