Thousands of dead starfish have washed up on a beach after recent rough seas and strong winds.

Shocking pictures captured yesterday show a mass stranding of the sea creatures near Walpole Bay in Margate.

Today they were also spotted at Viking Bay, Broadstairs.

Beach-goers have been warned to keep away from them as they might have infectious diseases.

The Environment Agency says creatures such as mussels, starfish, crabs and razor clams live on rocky habitats and can be easily dislodged amid unsettled weather, onshore winds or spring tides - causing them to be washed ashore.

“We continue to monitor reports of wash-ups and if people do have concerns about pollution they should report it to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60 so we can investigate,” a spokesman said.

Last year, hundreds of dead starfish washed up on the beach at Botany Bay, Broadstairs.

Thanet District Council says yesterday’s event is likely to have been caused by recent rough seas and onshore winds.

“We understand the concern from members of the public when sea life is discovered on the district’s beaches,” a council spokesperson said.

“Fish and other sea creatures that have washed ashore are reported to the Environment Agency and the NE Kent Marine Protected Area Management Group.

“We report all dead aquatic mammals to British Divers Marine Life Rescue, who collect the remains.”

Beach users are advised to report stranded sea life to Thanet District Council by email or beaches-and-coast@thanet.gov.uk by calling 01843 577000.

Reports should include information on the species - if known - and its condition, along with details of the location, date and time seen.

Any photos taken should be attached to the email.

The council added: “Members of the public are advised not to attempt to move any stranded sea life and to keep dogs and children away from them, as they may have infectious or transferable diseases.”