Operation to free stranded whale at Immingham docks

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A rescue operation is under way to free a 30ft (9m) whale stranded on a mud flat off the Lincolnshire coast.

Over 50 rescue officials are attempting to rescue the calf, which is stuck two thirds in mud at Immingham docks.

The operation to free the animal - which is believed to be a minke whale - began at about 08:00 BST.

Mike Puplett, of Humber Coastguard, said: "At the moment, we believe it's still alive. There's signs of life, there's still movement with it."

"We've got a lot of people down there. We've got the coastguards, the RNLI, the British Divers Marine Life, along with the RSPCA.

"The Humberside Fire and Rescue Service is standing by to provide safety cover because it's a dangerous area for people."

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service is digging a channel to help refloat the animal.

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