OFFICERS have been assisting the RSPCA with the Warrington seal following reports youths have throwing objects at the animal.

Police say there have been no confirmed sightings today, Monday, following the incident.

It is believed the seal may have travelled further downstream in the direction of Liverpool.

The Warrington seal has become something of a celebrity in the area at the weekend with large crowds gathering to take a picture. 

An RSPCA spokesman said: “We would like to thank the public for keeping us informed about this seal.

"We would like to reassure people that we will continue to monitor the seal, hopefully he will be able to make his way back to the sea but if there is a concern for his welfare, we will intervene to help.

"If the seal appears to be sick or injured in anyway we would look to get him to our local wildlife centre for treatment and rehabilitation.

"It is understandable that people want to see these amazing animals up close and in person. However we urge people to now keep their distance so this seal is not disturbed or frightened in any way as this could lead to the seal getting into problems.

"We always ask people to give them a wide berth if they see them on the beach and keep their pets away, no matter how tempting it is to go up and have a closer look.

"Calls about sick, underweight and injured seals can be logged with the RSPCA national cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999."