A SEAL was spotted nestling in the sand by passers-by at a Dorset beach on Friday evening.

Imogen Rayner, 39, was walking along Highcliffe Beach for her daily walk and spotted the sea mammal sunbathing on the ground.

While the beach was quiet, both her and one other person managed to catch a glimpse of the animal taking a rest.

Having spotted the mammal on her daily walk, she said it was the first time she has seen a seal in four years.

Imogen said: "I live close to the sea front and walk here regularly.

"It was just amazing because with everything going on at the moment, it was like nature coming back to life."

It comes as less people have been leaving their homes to risk the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The government has instructed people to stay at home unless for one daily exercise, for food and essentials, to care for the vulnerable and for essential travel to and from work.

She added: "I haven't seen a seal in four years so it was a pretty big deal. Apparently the seal is happy and healthy.

"He looked alert, relaxed and was moving. Just gorgeous."

More than 100 people have shared the video of the seal on social media.

While one person said "everything seems to work better since shut down", another said "someone is enjoying the freedom of lockdown".