Group of whales wash up dead on East Yorkshire beach
Up to ten whales have washed up on the shore between Withernsea and Tunstall
Last updated 24th Dec 2020
WARNING: This post contains images some readers may find upsetting
A number of whales have washed up dead on a beach in East Yorkshire.
David Leng from the British Drivers Marine Life Rescue says no rescue is possible because the whales are "too heavy" and the sea is too choppy.
It's believed the young male pod may have swam down from near to Scotland.
But with no food for them in the North Sea, it's suspected they may have starved.
They were spotted by someone walking along the coastline just before 8:30am this morning.
Gary Storey from Withernsea posted images of the whales on social media, saying it was "sad" to see at least four of the animals washed up.
In a statement provided to us, HM Coastguard said: "Just before 8.30am today (24 December) HM Coastguard received a 999 call from a member of the public with a report of seeing a number of whales on the shoreline at Withernsea beach.
Coastguard rescue teams from Withernsea, Hornsea and Easington have been sent."
It continues: "The relevant authorities have been informed including the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Receiver of Wreck, the local authority and the British Divers Marine Life Rescue who are also on the scene to assess the situation."
"The number of whales involved is yet to be confirmed but initial reports suggest it may be up to seven."
Large crowds have gathered nearby
Humberside Police have urged large crowds to disperse after people gathered to watch the rescue operation.
There's concerns about safety and the risk of Covid-19 spreading.
Chief Superintendent Darren Downs has said, “I understand the public interest in the incident but I would urge people to stay away from the area to allow the teams from HM Coast Guard to manage what is an extremely distressing scene."