Whale rescue practice for sub-aqua fans

Withernsea sub-aqua fans and local environmentalists had the opportunity to practice animal rescue in a big way on the town's beach recently. A full size replica of a pilot whale, ballasted with two tonnes of water, was 'marooned' on the beach, giving locals the opportunity to learn the sort of techniques required for such a huge mammal.

The course, run by British Divers Marine Life Rescue, covered numerous aspects of saving marooned marine mammals, including the use of pontoons which are often used to float whales off into deeper water. Course equipment also included life-size dolphin and seal models, species which are common in British waters, and are frequently in need of rescue.