Seal found with plastic ring round neck released

The large female grey seal was found to have a plastic flying ring embedded in its neck

A female grey seal that was found with a plastic flying ring embedded in its neck has been released back to the sea after weeks of rehabilitation.

The seal - named Ghost Bug - was taken to East Winch Wildlife Centre after she was rescued by the Friends of Horsey Seals in April.

Vets battled to remove the ring which had caused a "severe" and infected wound, leaving the animal exhausted and underweight.

Evangelos Achilleos, centre manager, said: "We are once again so grateful to the rescuers who brought her in to us - catching a large adult, even when they are very sick, is a difficult task."

The RSPCA has been campaigning for beachgoers to stop using the toys at the seaside.

Ghost Bug the seal was rescued by Friends of Horsey Seals and released back onto Horsey Beach

Mr Achilleos added: "I still find it hard to believe that so many seals have these flying rings around their neck.

"This small toy, when caught around a seal, can cause so much damage.

"We only see the ones who are thankfully rescued. It’s just awful to think that there will be others out there who have suffered a sad fate because of man-made items polluting our seas."

Although the grey seal's injury had healed well, she would be left with a permanent scar, he added.

Ghost Bug was successfully released back into the sea at Horsey Beach, Norfolk.

"It’s always a very moving moment when you watch them return back to the wild - it’s just wonderful knowing that thanks to everyone’s efforts this seal has been given a second chance," Mr Achilleos said.

Got a story? Email [e-mail] or WhatsApp us on 0800 169 1830