A SHARK which is designated as a vulnerable species washed up on a Bournemouth beach.

Georgina and Tim de Glanville discovered the Thresher shark on the seafront at Southbourne at around noon on Thursday, May 13.

They reported the incident to BCP Council’s beach and seafront services team, who attended the scene and retrieved the body of the young shark.

This was done in line with the council’s fish and mammals washed ashore policy.

Bournemouth Echo: The Thresher shark washed up on Southbourne beach. Picture: Georgina and Tim de Glanville The Thresher shark washed up on Southbourne beach. Picture: Georgina and Tim de Glanville

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “Thresher sharks are common in British seas although they tend to steer clear of coastal areas and remain in deeper waters.

“The species is also listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

“Sadly, living by the coast, it is common to see creatures washed ashore. The cause of death is unknown.”