A council is “monitoring the situation” after a dolphin was found dead on a Kent beach.

The mammal was discovered by a member of the public at Grenham Bay in Birchington-on-Sea at about 7.15am yesterday.

Due to the inaccessible location of the body, Thanet District Council (TDC) officers are currently unable to remove it, and the council is warning people to stay away.

A TDC spokesman explained: “We are aware of the dolphin at Grenham Bay and have notified all of the relevant authorities.

“Due to the inaccessible location we are currently unable to remove the dolphin but anticipate this will be possible after the change of tide.

“We are monitoring the situation and would urge members of the public to keep themselves, children and pets away.

“We understand the concern from members of the public when large sea mammals and other sea life is washed ashore on the district’s beaches.”

The authority has reported the incident to NE Kent Marine Protected Area Management Group and the National History Museum, who may collect the remains for scientific examination.

It appears to be a short-beaked common dolphin.

The spokesman added: “Beach users are advised to report stranded dead seals or other mammals to Thanet District Council by email on streetcleansingteam@thanet.gov.uk or 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 public is advised not to attempt to move any stranded dead mammals and to keep dogs and children away from them, as they may have infectious or transferable diseases.”