Dolphin released after rescue from violent waves

The young dolphin was found in the water, swimming, but being violently tossed in stormy waves

A dolphin found struggling off a beach has been helped back out to sea.

British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) sent a team to the beach near Lyme Regis in Dorset on Tuesday after the dolphin was seen in the water being tossed about in violent waves.

Medics from the charity brought the dolphin ashore where checks found he had superficial wounds but was healthy enough to be returned to the sea.

Due to the stormy conditions the dolphin was taken to a sheltered spot nearby, where after resting, he was seen to swim away to deep water.

The dolphin was taken to a more sheltered spot to rest before it was released

The marine mammal charity said after the dolphin was released medics spent time walking up and down the beach but saw "no further sign of him."

The charity added: "In good condition, and with no sign of him the next day, we hope that he goes on to live a healthy and long life."

BDMLR said members of the public who find a live stranded mammal should not try and return it to the sea and urged them to contact the charity.

It said any attempts to return them to the water could "prolong their suffering" and advised pouring water over it to keep its skin moist - avoiding the blowhole - keep noise to a minimum and keep people away.

On Saturday a stranded pilot whale died on a beach on the Isle of Wight despite attempts to rescue it.