A month-old seal pup believed to be in trouble dashed back into the sea before rescuers could get to it.

The young marine mammal appeared to be stranded on a slope leading down from the promenade to the beach in Birchington.

Witnesses called British Divers Marine Life Rescue, who send a volunteer to check over the pup.

However, by the time the rescuers got there, the animal had crawled back into the sea.

A spokesperson for the rescue organisation said: “The seal returned to the water so we weren't able to assess it.

“It is one of this year's pups so we would say it’s about a month or so old.”

Photos show the seal laying on the sand and facing the camera.

The mammals are often getting themselves into trouble around the Kent coast.

Last month one was discovered in Whitstable with a face injury and was taken to the vet.

In March, a youngster was found with abscesses and bite wounds in Broadstairs.

People should not approach a seal on the beach in any circumstances and should keep dogs away.

The BDMLR should be contacted as soon as possible via the rescue hotline on 01825 765546 or online.