The bottlenose dolphin has been swimming and frolicking with holidaymakers and surfers at Chesil Cove.

Wildlife groups have expressed concern for the mammal's well-being because it keeps being struck by boat propellers.

But scores of people are taking advantage of a rare opportunity to get within touching distance.

Conservationists are asking people to stay away from the dolphin despite the fact that he has proved friendly.

There is concern about the mental state of the animal which appears to be craving company.

Tourist attraction

Bottlenose dolphins stay together in packs so it is rare to see one alone.

Peter Tinsley from the Dorset Wildlife Trust said: "There's something odd about it definitely.

"It would normally be with other dolphins and it seems to be constantly, almost obsessively, seeking contact with people and boats.

"This is inevitably going to lead to problems for the dolphin, especially as he seems to be getting very close to boat propellers."