UPDATED: Rescuers are battling to save the life of a dolphin that has washed up on a beach in Sandown this afternoon (Thursday).
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team are on scene at Culver Parade where the animal has beached itself.
Water is being collected from the sea by local surfers to be poured over the distressed mammal.
A marine medic has been called to assist.
It is thought to be the same dolphin seen off Shanklin Beach earlier on today.
UPDATE @ 16:58 – The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are now on scene with an appliance and crew from Ryde.
The specialist British Divers Marine Life Rescue team are also in attendance alongside Hampshire Constabulary’s Wildlife officer and an Inspector.
UPDATE @ 17:15 – Despite the best efforts of all agencies, the difficult decision has been taken to put the dolphin to sleep.
Firefighters are to assist in removing the mammal from the beach to be disposed. An aerial ladder platform from Ryde has been called in.
UPDATE @ 19:09 – The dolphin has been successfully lifted from the beach – read more at https://www.islandecho.co.uk/dolphin-lifted-beach-put-sleep/.
