A SEAGULL that was impaled on the TV aerial of a three-storey building was rescued by firefighters.

Despite the rescue operation, the seagull later died of its injuries.

Yesterday afternoon, firefighters were called to assist the RSPCA in the rescue of a seagull that had impaled itself on the TV aerial of a property on High East Street in Dorchester.

Because of the height of the building, firefighters needed an aerial appliance so they could reach the bird and detach it. At around 3.30pm, an aerial appliance from Weymouth arrived and crews prepared to help the seagull.

In order for the rescue to take place safely, High East Street was closed from 4.38pm until 4.51pm. Firefighters were able to bring the bird down and it was placed in the care of the RSPCA. Unfortunately, due to the severity of its injuries, the seagull died.

Suzanne Norbury, press officer for the RSPCA South West and west Midlands, said: "The gull had impaled itself on the TV aerial through the lower leg which had caused quite a nasty wound, but the main problem was the damage to the hip joint where the gull had been suspended and was thrashing around to try and free itself. The leg was no longer in the joint, it was all floppy and useless.

"I'm just sorry there is no happy ending for the gull. It can sadly be the case that when an animal becomes so badly trapped they can sustain terrible injuries in their struggle."