DUCKING and diving to the delight of onlookers, a pod of dolphins entertained people at Mudeford Quay over the weekend with their playful antics.

The pod of around 12-15 bottlenose dolphins was spotted about 11am on Saturday, watched from a safe distance by local boat-users in the water around Mudeford beach and Hengistbury Head for around 45 minutes.

To view all of Sallie's pictures, click the 'view gallery' link above.

Local resident Sallie Longman, who photographed the creatures, said: “As soon as we heard they were at the end of the channel at Christchurch Harbour, we got into our boat and went out to have a look – keeping at a safe distance of course.

“The last time we saw them here was around two years ago so it was lovely to be able to see them so close.

“Everyone was really respectful, giving them lots of space.

“There were about eight boats out altogether, but the dolphins seemed in no hurry to leave. They were too busy showing off and enjoying themselves.”

Robin Plowman, a ranger at Durlston Country Park, which runs a special marine project, said: “It’s quite common for dolphins to turn up in local waters from time to time and we have had a few reports of sightings over the weekend.

“Bottlenose dolphins do tend to be inshore animals but it’s important boats take care and approach the area carefully.

“Over the past few years we have seen a larger group of dolphins in the area, which is fantastic because it means they’re breeding.

“In the past there only seemed to be around five.”

The Durlston Country Park marine project investigates and raises awareness of the local environment, sending out dive teams in co-ordination with local reports.

Send us your pictures of what you've spotted across Dorset and the New Forest, click here to find out how.

The Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve website states: Dolphins are protected by law making it illegal for boats to approach them. Boat users spotting a dolphin should immediately switch off their engine and allow the animal to approach them. Three boats around a dolphin can seriously harrass the mammal. Please watch from afar.