Jellyfish threaten Dover harbour swimmers
15:55, 07 August 2013
Several swimmers have been stung as dozens of jellyfish swarmed in Dover Harbour.
It comes after warnings were issued about the increased numbers of jellyfish in the Channel.
Researchers said the warm weather had seen a rapid rise in jellyfish blooms around the UK.
But the numbers inside Dover Harbour took everyone by surprise recently.
Strollers on the Prince of Wales Pier looked down on dozens of them.
Swimmers reported being stung, though no-one suffered any lasting effects.
One German swimmer was said to have got up close and personal with one jellyfish... and was stung on his nose.
Denise Sparks was among those who were surprised by how many there were, and sent our sister paper the Mercury these photographs.
Owen Leyshon, from the White Cliffs Countryside Partnership, identified them as compass jellyfish.
“They are very attractive creatures and are found around the British coastline mainly in the summer months,” he said.
“They are reasonably common along the Channel from July onwards and tend to come ashore in swarms if the currents and tides are right. They have 24 tentacles and hold a mild sting."
For anyone who is unfortunate enough to be stung, Mr Leyshon has this advice.
"Pour cold water on any jellyfish sting to reduce the swelling or sting."
