A WALRUS has been spotted basking on rocks off the North-East coastthis weekend.

The giant sea mammal came ashore at Seahouses in Northumberland and the public are being urged to keep their distance.

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The Tynemouth Seal Hospital are appealing for people to stay away from it.

They posted: "We are aware of the reports of a walrus in the local area, and would urge people to please give it as much space and rest as possible.

"This animal is out of it's normal area and will need to rest and build its strength back up.

The Northern Echo:

The walrus at Seahouses Picture: PA

"The RSPCA and BDMLR (British Divers Marine Life Rescue) are aware. Please, please follow safe wildlife distancing for this animal to make sure it stays safe."

Walruses are more commonly found around the North Pole in the Arctic Circle.

Earlier this year a125st Arctic walrus, known as Wally, hit the headlines after being spotted in Ireland, France, Spain and the UK before turning up Iceland in September.

It is estimated he had swam 2,485 miles before reaching Ireland, with the new sighting in Iceland meaning he had swum a further 560 miles from his last known location in Cork.

 

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