An underweight and dehydrated seal pup has been rescued from a beach after being stranded overnight.

The creature, thought to be about two weeks old, was spotted at 7.10am yesterday near Ramsgate's Wetherspoon pub, prompting a rescue effort by volunteers.

Sheila and Jez Stone were among those on the scene to transport the animal to safety.

Mrs Stone told KentOnline: "We had medics on the scene within 20 minutes of the first call.

"They watched him and kept dog walkers away.

"When the sea attempted to return to the sea herself, she swam straight back out again."

Mrs Stone says seals of that age are expected to weigh 20 to 30 kg - but this one was just 11kg.

"She was also dehydrated, which I could tell by her crusty eyes," added Mrs Stone.

"There was some minor swelling to her muzzle, but no obvious injuries."

The seal was taken to the RSPCA site at Mallydams Wood in Hastings for treatment.

She is expected to make a full recovery, providing no underlying issues are found.

Mrs Stone is a volunteer marine medic with British Divers Marine Life Rescue, and is urging who comes across a stranded seal to call the organisation on 01825 765546.