POLICE and wildlife experts are warning people to steer clear of Randy the dolphin after he injured several swimmers.

The adult bottlenose, who is also known as Georges, arrived in Weymouth and Portland six months ago and his friendly antics quickly gained him worldwide celebrity status.

But his behaviour has become more erratic and there have been reports of Randy, named because of his fondness for female swimmers, hurting people, including children. Marine experts say Randy, last seen at Chesil Cove on Portland last week, has bitten and butted several swimmers.

His tail flips have also hit a number of people and one swimmer was taken to hospital for shock after Randy tossed them out of the water.

Now Dorset Police and marine charities are warning people to stay away from him to prevent more injuries both to them and the wild solitary dolphin.

Cath Owens, from the Swanage-based Durlston Marine Project, said: "Randy's behaviour has become more unpredictable as he has experienced an increasing number of swimmers entering the water to try and swim with him. Several people have been bitten, hit by the dolphin's tail flips, or butted by the dolphin."

Police say people are not heeding the warnings to steer clear of Randy and fear there could more serious injuries in the future.

John Snellin, Dorset Police Wildlife Liaison Officer, said: "We are very concerned that, eventually, his attraction to humans could result in a more serious accident. This is a fantastic opportunity to see a wild dolphin but it is best appreciated from the shore where there is no risk of injury to the dolphin or to people. Up to 60 people at one time tried to swim with the dolphin over the Bank Holiday weekend and many left the water in tears."

Marine groups are also reminding boat owners to take care because Randy is attracted to propellers.

Vanessa Williams, of the Whale and Dolphin Conser-vation Society, added: "Randy is undoubtedly keen to spend time with people but we urge the public to give him space and respect that he is a strong, powerful wild animal, protected by UK law."