A SEAHORSE was accidentally caught by a fisherman in Poole after it attached itself to a piece of weed before it was returned to safety. 

The fisherman caught the seahorse by accident and returned the creature back to the water safely on Saturday, October 8.

Andrew Green was fishing at Poole Harbour when he hooked a piece of weed that was carrying the "mythical creature."

Andrew said: "It was suspended by the piece of weed that became caught on the hook.

"The hook itself did not pierce the skin of the beautiful and mythical creature and it was carefully returned to the water unharmed.

"I have an understanding that these are protected species and there is a scientific area of interest in the Studland area.

READ MORE: Dolphins caught on camera playing near Bournemouth Pier

"The Seahorse in its natural “S” shape measured approx 9” (20cm) long by 2.5” (6.5cm) wide."

Dorset Wildlife Trust receives "several" reports each year of seahorse sightings and believes the creatures are there all year round. 

A spokesperson from Dorset Wildlife Trust said: "It is known that seahorses are found in Poole Harbour, in fact we get several reports each year and they are probably there year round.

"The most common of the two UK seahorse species to be found in the harbour is the Spiny or Long-snouted Seahorse (Hippocampus guttulatus).

READ MORE: Giant jellyfish spotted swimming under Boscombe pier

"It is always a special treat to see one. Seahorses are protected by law in the UK and you need a special licence from the Marine Management Organisation if you wish to deliberately seek them out.

"If anyone finds or spots one, please always report your sighting to Dorset Wildlife Trust.

"However, you should avoid handling or disturbing it as this is illegal.

"If you find a fresh one washed up on the shore it may be worth holding it in water for a minute or two as they sometimes recover and swim away.

"The whole of Dorset is a real hotspot for seahorses and we love receiving reports of people seeing them here."