A DEAD dolphin has washed up on a beach in Sandbanks.

Resident James Willis spotted the animal while walking his dog at Kite Beach on Thursday, January 4. 

HM Coastguard and BCP Council confirmed the discovery had been reported, and that the dolphin was due to be removed.

A spokesperson for the local authority said: “As we live on the coast and because of the ecological richness of BCP regions waters, it is not uncommon to see creatures washed ashore.

“We will be sending a report and images to the Marine Conservation Society.

“The UK Cetacean Standings Investigation Programme have been informed and BCP Council are liaising with Poole Harbour Commissioners, who manage the land, to remove the animal in a safe, respectful manner.”

A spokesperson for HM Coastguard added: "Poole Coastguard Rescue Team located the body of a dolphin at Kite beach, Poole, on January 3. 

"A report was made to HM Coastguard at about 3.10pm and the local council was informed."

James Willis said: "Whilst walking my dog I noticed an unusual and unfamiliar shape on the beach.

"Upon the approach I was shocked and saddened to see it was a dolphin. I’m aware and have seen great photos of dolphins in the harbour, however I was not expecting to see one washed up on the beach.

"I noticed Coast Guard branded tape around the animal so could only assume that they are aware, and maybe made an attempt to recover the dolphin.

"I’ve two children, Barnaby and Maxwell, who I took down later that evening for their own curiosity and to learn and educate with the delicacy of nature.

"We often carry out litter picking on this stretch of beach."