Beach-goers have been warned not to approach a dead whale which has washed up on a Northumberland beach.
Berwick Coastguard issued a warning on Thursday to locals and visitors to the town, after the animal was found on the shore near Berwick Pier.
Northumberland County Council is now making arrangements to remove the body, which poses a "significant health risk".
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A spokesperson for the coastguard rescue team said: "Just after 10am this morning, we were paged... to reports of a dead whale on the beach to the north of Berwick Pier. Eyemouth Coastguard were also tasked to this incident.
"Team members attended the scene where a 9m whale carcass had washed up on the beach. It appeared to have been dead for some time.
"Measurements and photographs were taken and the information passed on to the Receiver of Wreck for further assessment."
The spokesperson warned: "Decomposing whales pose a significant health hazard from bacteria so should not be approached.
"Whales are Royal Fish and the property of the Receiver of Wreck. It is a criminal offence to interfere with the carcass.
"Members of the public are urged not to visit or approach due to the health risk and potential risk of serious personal injury. Northumberland County Council is arranging for the disposal of the carcass."
The coastguard was also called out on Wednesday to fears that a kayak was drifting in the water.
A search was launched, but no craft or objects of concern were found, while no one has been reported missing.
The coastguard praised the person who called the incident in, however, saying they did "exactly the right thing" in sharing their concerns.
"If you see anyone in danger on our coastline, cliffs or on the water, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard," the spokesperson added
