A helpless seal has been spotted stranded on a seafront by concerned beach-goers.

Animal welfare experts are understood to have been called to the scene near Minnis Bay, Birchington, this morning.

The British Divers Marine Life Rescue and RSPCA are both reported to have been contacted.

It comes after specialist animal rescuers had to help two seal pups in Kent last month after they became stranded on beaches.

Marine conservation volunteers rushed to the aid of a baby seal at Herne Bay.

A similar rescue saw a seal pup taken from the beach in Dumpton Gap, between Broadstairs and Ramsgate.

It was passed into the care of the RSPCA who said they would release it back into the wild when it has put weight on.

Grey seals' birthing season runs until March and from the end of May to the beginning of June it is the season for common seals, such as those found in the River Stour, to give birth.

The BDMLR charity was also responsible for trying to move on a seal, called Bradley, who spent several weeks swimming along the non-tidal part of the River Medway, between Aylesford, Maidstone and Allington.

Bradley eventually decided to swim back to the sea through Allington Lock.

If anyone spots a stranded seal, the BDMLR rescue hotline is 01825 765546.

The RSPCA and BDMLR have been contacted for more information.