A DEAD dolphin found in Portland Harbour is, very sadly, believed to be Weymouth's much-loved Danny the dolphin.

A dead bottlenose dolphin was found in Portland Harbour yesterday (Tuesday, October 27). Investigations are now underway to determine the cause of death.

While the dolphin's identity is still yet to be officially confirmed, marine wildlife expert Liz Sandeman, co-founder of Marine Connection said she is "99.9 per cent sure it is definitely Danny.

"It's such devastating news," she said.

"I've worked in this field for over 25 years - everybody has become so touched by him - there's going to be so many upset people - he's become such a big part of the town."

Liz explained that dolphins are identified by their dorsal fin as no two are the same, similar to a human fingerprint.

A necropsy will now be carried out by the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP), which looks into the causes of death of cetaceans around the country.

In a statement, Portland Port said: "A dead bottlenose dolphin was removed from Portland Harbour (yesterday.)

"It is due to be collected by the UK Cetacean Stranding Information Project for analysis on October 28."

The news comes after dead dolphins and a seal were sighted at Chesil Beach on Portland earlier this week, however this latest incident is not believed to be linked.