A dead dolphin has been found washed up on an Isle of Wight beach.
The mammal was discovered on the sands in Shanklin, near the steps by The Blueberry Cafe this morning (Friday).
A dog walker said the small dolphin was sadly deceased and there was nothing that could be done to save it.
With the tide incoming, passers-by tried to move it but said it was too heavy.
HM Coastguard was called and Bembridge Coastguard was sent to carry out necessary checks.
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The dolphin is expected to be sent off for research purposes.
A spokesperson for HM Coastguard said: "A report was made to HM Coastguard at about 10.25am about the body of a dolphin washed up on the beach at Shanklin.
"Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team was sent to record the incident."
If you find a deceased whale, porpoise, dolphin or sturgeon on the coast you're urged to contact the Receiver of Wreck on 0203 817 2575.
In a coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
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