I heard a rumour yesterday that a dolphin had washed up on Cleveleys beach - I was doubtful, but here are the pictures to prove it:

http://flickr.com/photos/16972145@N04

Pictures courtesy of Joe Kennedy.

After trying to get the dolphin back into deeper water, without success, the coastguard wrapped the dolphin in a wet blanket and took it away to care for it.

I do wonder if anything like this has ever happened on Cleveleys or Blackpool beaches before. I find it quite unusual but maybe there are a few dolphins around.

If anyone has any further information or stories do let me know.