More huge jellyfish are being washed up on beaches around Weymouth and Portland.

An increasing numbers of sightings of barrel jellyfish - both in the water and washed up on the shores - have been reported.

Although these jellyfish are not dangerous to humans, people are advised not to touch them as they can sting even when dead.

Portland resident Shaun Carroll, who found one of them at Bowleaze Cove, said: "When we initially found the jellyfish we hesitantly approached. We were unsure of what had washed up.

"Having previous experience of discovering what turned out to be a dead goat that must have fallen off the coast path, I did not wish to make wild guesses as to what it may be.

"Once we got up close we were gobsmacked at the size of it and took a moment to wonder where it had come from and the reasons why it was here.

"Later that day I started hearing many other people had begun seeing them of all different sizes due to the drying out process.

"I did a little research that evening and did discover its name and the reasons for it being here. Although I live near the seaside I rarely visit the shore."

Barrel jellyfish are among the most common types of jellyfish that can be found in UK waters.

They can weigh up to 35kg, and are most often seen between May and October.

Macauley Arnold of Weymouth Angling Centre took a video of large numbers of jellyfish near the Pleasure Pier.

Andrew Selby, owner of Weymouth Angling Centre, said: "We have never seen so many. They seem to be everywhere."

Mr Selby said that these jellyfish are not dangerous, but he recommends that people do not touch them nonetheless.

Dorset Wildlife Trust has also confirmed that the sting of a barrel jellyfish is not harmful to humans.

Sally Welbourn, Dorset Wildlife Trust communications officer, said: “As the water warms up, barrel jellyfish are coming closer to the shoreline in search of food, which is why sadly some are being washed up on the beach.

"They are the most common jellyfish to be seen in Dorset and can grow up to a metre wide and two metres long.

"We would advise the public not to touch them, as even when dead, they can still give a small sting.

"It also means that we should be on the look-out for other marine wildlife, such as leatherback turtles, which feed on jellyfish.”