Seal of approval: Gavin the seal makes a splash

Paddleboarders on the River Arun in West Sussex are becoming used to Gavin the seal hitching a ride with them.

Footage of the young grey seal hopping on passing boards has won him fans, and locals have even set up a Facebook page dedicated to him.

The latest paddleboarder to meet Gavin was John Mitchell, who captured the moment on his mobile phone.