Seal outside Talk of the Town in Herne Bay

by Chris Price

This curious pup has given a new meaning to clubbing seals – after ending up outside a Herne Bay nightspot this morning.

The picture was taken in front of Talk of the Town nightclub on the seafront at about 9am.

Onlookers were mystified at how far the creature had gone from the shore.

The seal crossed a busy road and travelled about 50 yards from the beach to outside the club doors.

British Divers Marine Life Rescue, Kent Police and Herne Bay Coastguard arrived soon after and released the seal back in the sea from Hampton Pier at 10.38am.

Emma Gatfield, of Herne Court on Central Parade, took the photo of the animal, which was apparently unimpressed with the town’s club scene.

The 24-year-old said: "It just looked really confused and was laying there quietly. It didn’t look distressed. I just don’t understand how he got over there.

"It is a baby but it is quite chunky for a baby seal. Lots of people were taking pictures but we have left it now."

Coastguard watch officer Rebecca Polden said: "The animal was put in a cage and returned to the sea safe and well."

To see more pictures of the seal rescue, pick up this week's Herne Bay Gazette.