The hot weather has had all sorts of sunseekers flocking to Southend's beaches - including this grey seal that spent several hours basking in the sunshine.

Flippin' hot - the grey seal enjoys the sun on Thorpe Bay beach Picture: KIRSTY DOWMAN

Bemused beach hut owners at Thorpe Bay sunbathed alongside the seal which swam up and plonked itself on the beach letting the waves gently wash over it.

Hut owner Kelly Kay, said: "I couldn't believe my eyes when the seal swam up to the shore as it is very unusual to see them just lying on the beach.

"It looked very contented and seemed to be enjoying the sunshine like everyone else."

Published Friday, April 18, 2003

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