A DOLPHIN found stranded at Ynyslas beach near Borth died despite rescue attempts from local surfers and HM Coastguard.

The young female dolphin stranded itself on the beach on Friday, 18 March, but despite the best efforts of rescuers, she sadly died at around 11.30am.

Staff at Natural Resources Wales were alerted to the common dolphin becoming stranded by a group of local surfers.

The HM Coastguard were called out, and the UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP), RSPCA and Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre were alerted.

With advice from the CSIP and RSPCA, members of the local Coastguard recuse team attempted to keep the dolphin above the waters surface to enable it to breath, whilst awaiting assessment from a marine vet.

Sadly, despite the best efforts of those at the scene, the dolphin - thought to be about 18 months old and female, died before it could be refloated and released.

If you find a stranded marine mammal - please report any strandings by calling 0800 652 0333.