Seal pup rescued from Blackhall beach after youths picked him up to pose for photos

A group of teenagers on the beach had picked up the underweight pup to pose for photos, leaving the little seal traumatised.

The British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) confirmed that the seal had been spotted in distress on Sunday evening (July 19) but it had returned to the sea before rescue teams could get there.

Rescue teams noticed that the pup had an infection around its mouth so was taken to Tynemouth Seal Hospital to be checked over by vets.In a statement on the official BDMLR page, a spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, this little pup weighing only 8kg, was heavily disturbed by the public last night when some teenagers were picking him up for photos at Blackhall Rocks.”

"The seal was sighted the evening before but returned to the water before help arrived. The seal was very stressed with an infection around its mouth so was taken for a check over at the vets before being admitted to Tynemouth Seal Hospital late last night.

“Well done to Carol and Jason for this rescue and of course the vets and volunteers at the seal hospital.”

BDMLR also issued a reminder to the public that if they see any seals on the beach to keep their distance and call 01825 765546 if they are in distress.

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