Dead whale found by dog walkers on Kent beach

The animal is believed to be a Northern Minke whale

A dead whale has been washed up on a beach in Kent.

The 25ft (7.6m) whale was found at Epple Bay in Birchington by dog walkers at 08:00 GMT and the beach was cordoned off over fears for public safety.

The British Divers Marine Life Rescue organisation, based in East Sussex, said it was believed the animal was a young Northern Minke whale.

The body has been moved to a depot in Manston where a post-mortem examination will be carried out.

In March a 45ft (13.7m) long sperm whale died after becoming stranded in Pegwell Bay.

Minke whales weigh between five and 10 tonnes and prefer cooler waters.

They feed on fish and krill and travel alone or in small groups.