A dead dolphin has been found washed up on Branscombe beach.

The animal, believed to have been a common adult dolphin, was found earlier today (Tuesday) washed ashore near The Sea Shanty.

Terry Hoare, of Beer Coastguard, said they were called to measure and photograph the animal on behalf on the Natural History Museum, in London, earlier today.

He added that dead dolphins normally washed up two or three times a year in the area, but were usually badly decomposed after dying out at sea before being washed ashore.

In this case he believed the dolphin died shortly before it was washed ashore.

Mr Hoare said: "Dolphins are recognised as royal fish which means that the Natural History Museum often take the dead animals so they can try to unravel the events leading up to their deaths.

"I'm not sure what would have caused the poor creature's death, whether it be fishing line or a boat propeller.

"The Natural History Museum will now decided whether they want to remove the carcass for their investigation or if they want the local council to depose of it."

At the moment the dolphin still remains on the beach, so passersby have been asked to not go near or touch it.

Steve Hussey, of Devon Wildlife Trust, said: "The discovery of this dead common dolphin is sad, but unfortunately not that rare.

"It's a reminder of the beauty of the wildlife which lives around our shores, and its fragility."

The UK Cetacean Strandings Investigations Programme (CSIP) provides advice for anyone who comes across a stranded whale, dolphin or porpoise.

When reporting a dead stranding to CSIP on 0800 652 0333 give a clear description of location, species if known, overall length and condition of the animal, for example: fresh; slightly decomposed; moderately decomposed; advanced decomposition.

If the cetacean (whale, dolphin or porpoise) is found alive, please telephone the RSPCA as soon as possible. If the weather is hot keep the animal cool and wet and avoid pouring water near the blowhole. Keep well clear of the tail and do not pull the animal by its tail or fins.