A sperm whale that ventured into the waters off the Northumberland coast has died and onlookers are being warned to stay clear.
Experts feared the worst when it was spotted just a short distance from the shore on Friday.
The 40ft mammal was first sighted off Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, before moving to the Wansbeck estuary, between Cambois and Sandy Bay.
The huge sperm whale was briefly stranded about 200m off the coast but was able to start swimming again.
However, the whale’s condition declined and later died.
Volunteers with The British Divers Marine Life Rescue and the Coastguard confirmed the whale’s death.
A post mortem is due to take place to discover why the mammal passed away.
Whale-lovers have nick-named him Moby on social media but the public are being warned not to go near the whale as experts say it could carry disease.
A spokesman for the British Divers Marine Life Rescue said: “Unfortunately, but as expected, the whale in Northumberland did become stranded later on this afternoon and subsequently died shortly thereafter.
“Some of our volunteers were accompanied out to the carcass this evening by the Coastguard team to confirm death and to take measurements and photographs for the national database held by our colleagues at the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme- UK strandings based at the Institute of Zoology, London.
“It is hoped that arrangements can be made for their team to carry out a post mortem examination to further reveal what may have been happening with this animal.
“We can confirm for now that this was a 13.3m long male, which would still be a young animal that was not yet fully mature, and could weigh in the region of 30 tons.
“It is very important to note that cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) are mammals like us humans, and therefore able to carry serious diseases that can be transmitted between us. We would advise members of the public to avoid all contact with the carcass and any bodily fluids to avoid any risk of infection from them - there is the possibility that this may have been an animal that was already ill.
“Incidents like this do tend to draw crowds and we would urge people to please be respectful of this situation and advice provided.
“Thank you to our team of volunteers, staff at Head Office and Out Of Hours Coordinators along with the local Coastguard team for all their efforts throughout this difficult time.”
Upset mammal lovers took to social media and posted emotional messages on the Newbiggin-by-the-Sea Dolphin Watch Facebook page.
Marine scientist Ivor Clark, who runs the North East Wild Dolphin Monitoring Project, posted: "I appreciate for many its an emotional time with the loss of this Sperm Whale some have affectionately nicknamed 'Moby'.
"...An incredible outpouring of human emotions relating to the Sperm Whale. I promise we will look at some way to mark this day in memory of this amazing animal. Some have already suggested a plaque or similar. We will look at options then let our members choose what they think is most appropriate."
Jan Lynn wrote: "Will never forget this sad time for a very long time but have certainly been educated on these amazing whales.. he definitely touched everyone's hearts..r.i.p Moby."
Lindsey Fletcher said: "Absolutely heartbroken."
Tina Parry posted: "So sad what a beautiful mammal."
