COASTGUARDS have made a plea for residents to keep away from 'Sammy', a seal who has been regularly sighted around the Weymouth and Portland coastline.

Recently a child was bitten after attempting to stroke the seal.

Meanwhile, a group of locals is now working 'around the clock' patrol to protect the seal at Greenhill Beach according to resident Beth Mayne, who said that yobs have been seen throwing stones at the animal.

"He has come on to the beach to rest but people just won’t leave him alone," she added."

Dorset Echo: Picture: Dorset Wildlife TrustPicture: Dorset Wildlife Trust

A spokesman for Wyke coastguard said: "'Sammy' the seal is very friendly especially when in the water. It would appear that he actively seeks company. But he is in his environment and in control.

"But please folks, when he tries to come up onto the beach to rest, keep well away and let him have that rest.

"On the whole, people are doing that, but a couple of times today the temptation to get up close was too much for some. Observe from a distance and if you happen to be on the waters edge when he appears, just move away and let him have some space."