East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service (WRAS) were called out by members of the public to Eastbourne Seafront yesterday afternoon around 4pm.

A young seal just over 1 metre in length was spotted on the beach by the Western Lawns with blood on its coat.

Rescuers arrived on scene to find a crowd of people watching the seal. Lifeguards were also in attendance ensuring people did not get too close.

Experienced Marine Mammal Medics Trevor Weeks and Chris Riddington walked down onto the beach and positioned themselves between the seal and water blocking the seal’s escape route. The then approach the seal swiftly catching it. Trevor pinned the seal to the floor whilst Chris checked over the rear of the animal and Trevor checked over the front.

There were numerous punctures wounds around the muzzle and to the flippers which were not fresh and also infected. Some of the wounds were bleeding too.  The seal was lifted and carried back to the waiting veterinary ambulance.

The seal was take back to WRAS's Veterinary Hospital where the wounds were cleaned up before being transported to the RSPCA Mallydams Wood centre at Hastings where they have specialist seal facilities.

It is hoped that the seal will make a complete recovery in due course.

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Press Contacts: Trevor Weeks & Chris Riddigton 01825-873003

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