Malnourished seal washed up on Brighton beach

The seal was spotted by children washed up on Brighton beach

A young seal that was washed up on a beach in Brighton is recovering at a rescue centre.

The seal, which was described by the RSPCA as "exhausted and severely underweight", was spotted by children lying motionless on the beach close to the city's West Pier on 7 August.

Wildlife volunteers from British Divers Marine Life Rescue and East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service attended to the pup, which is now receiving intensive care at RSPCA Mallydams Wood Wildlife Centre near Hastings.

Jess O'Doherty, wildlife supervisor at RSPCA Mallydams, said: "The seal was in such a poor condition that he didn't even flinch when approached."

She added: "This kind of behaviour is very concerning in seals and signals serious exhaustion or illness."

The rescued seal - which has been named Fern by staff at the charity - was treated with antibiotics following a bite wound, and is "responding well".

It was given fluids and glucose by the rehabilitation team.

Ms O'Doherty said: "Although he looked very downcast on arrival, he's already begun to perk up thanks to regular feeds and ongoing care.

"We're doing everything we can to give him the second chance he deserves.

"Fern will remain under close observation as he continues his recovery."