Whale washes up injured on Sussex beach: Everything we know so far

Photos and video footage taken on Rustington beach show Coastguard crews in attendance, alongside a British Divers Marine Life Rescue team.

Watched by a crowd of on-lookers, rescue teams are looking after the sea mammal, which reportedly washed up alive but with injuries.

A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: “The Coastguard Rescue Team from Littlehampton is supporting the response to a northern bottlenose whale washed up on East Beach at Littlehampton today.

"The alarm was raised at about 1.30pm and the British Divers Marine Life Rescue are in attendance.”

According to an eye-witness, local residents are helping the rescue effort. The alarm was raised by a beachgoer and rescuers believe the young whale is male.

In a statement on Saturday evening, Arun District Council said: “A northern bottle nose whale has washed ashore on one of our beaches.

“Marine specialists are on site and taking care of it, along with the help of the Coastguards.

“We know this is an interesting incident but it is important that we leave the team to do their job and look after the whale.

“It is thought that it isn't in the best of health so please be respectful of this beautiful creature and those caring for it.”

MAJOR UPDATE: Whale dies on Sussex beach after washing up injured

Scroll down and click through to see photos from the scene.