Deadly jellyfish have washed up along Dorset beaches over the weekend - with some saying they have been blown to shore by ex-hurricane Ophelia.

Several reports of the sea creatures, resembling Portuguese man o' war, have been made over the weekend, with sightings at Southbourne, Bournemouth and Poole as well as Swanage.

Although their stings are rarely fatal to humans, the Portuguese man o’ war can deliver a very painful sting even when dead.

The arrival of the Portuguese man o' war has sparked a warning from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Speaking over the weekend, Aimee Rampton duty controller for the UK Coastguard said: “We are aware of these sightings after receiving multiple reports from members of the public yesterday and today. 

"Until an accurate identification is made, members of the public are advised to keep away from these jellyfish and report any sighting to the their local council. 

"The Coastguard has also advised the local councils of these recent sightings. Stings from Portuguese man o' war can be very painful and potentially harmful to humans and dogs alike.”

If you are worried you may have been stung, seek medical assistance as soon as possible.