A seal has been spotted in the sea off West Bay.

Graham Banfield from Beaminster took this picture on Tuesday of this week of the seal just off the coast.

It is warned that if the seal does come onto the shore for a rest people should not approach it.

It's not unusual for seals to be seen in local waters - both grey and common (or harbour) seals can be seen - but sightings always cause a stir.

Last spring a seal pup which came onto the beach at West Bay attracted attention - and pictures emerged of people crowding round it.

The pictures led to warnings from local organisations for people to give the seal some space and to instead observe him from a distance.

It is crucial that seals are given space if they come into land.

Dorset Wildlife Trust says: "Whilst it’s exciting to spot a seal, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and need to be given plenty of space. Seals are vulnerable to disturbance from humans, especially when on land. Seals need to come ashore to rest, digest their food, breed and moult and getting too close causes disturbance. Disturbance is bad for seals as it interrupts their rest, wastes their energy, raises their stress levels, and can result in them becoming injured or worse."

Here are some tips to help you enjoy a memorable experience without causing disturbance:

Keep well away from seals so that they can’t see, hear or smell you

Use a camera zoom or binoculars for a better view

Keep dogs on a lead if seals are known to be in the area

Never feed seals

Take all litter home

Do not seek out encounters with seals in the water