EXPERTS are trying to find out what caused the death of a seven-metre-long whale found washed up at a Purbeck beauty spot.

Lulworth Coastguard Rescue Officers went to Worbarrow Bay after being told of the find on Thursday morning. The incident was reported to the Natural History Museum in London, which organises for a vet to visit the scene to try to determine the cause of death.

The Receiver of Wrecks and the owner of the beach, the Ministry of Defence, were also informed so they can arrange for the disposal of the body.

The dead mammal is thought to be a pilot whale, a member of the dolphin family usually found in groups in cooler waters.

Do you know what kind of whale it is?