The RSPCA in Lincolnshire says its resources are being pushed to the limit by the seal distemper outbreak.

Hundreds of sick animals are being reported on the coast, giving officers a full workload.

It is estimated 10 per cent of the local seal population has died.

The charity is asking people to think twice before calling for help with other animals.

Around 300 seals have died

More than 300 seals have been found dead around the Wash so far.

This is thought to account for around 10 per cent of the total seal population around the Wash.

The RSPCA says many of its officers are spending much of their time taking sick seals to Norfolk, for urgent treatment at the charity's Wildlife Hospital.

While officers from outside the area are being brought in to help, this is having an impact on other lines of work.

The public are now being asked to think twice before calling the RSPCA, to consider whether their call is urgent or if another organisation can help.

But officials say that while sick seals are a priority, urgent cruelty cases involving other animals will still be dealt with as normal.