TWO dead dolphins have been washed up on Dorset beaches in the last few days and conservationists fear they could be the first of many.

"With the winter weather and the strength of the wind there is a good possibility we could get some more," said Jenny Waldron of Southern Marine Life Rescue.

A bottlenose dolphin was discovered near Osmington Mills, Weymouth and has been sent away for an autopsy to discover what caused its death.

But a female striped dolphin which beached under cliffs at Hengistbury Head had probably been dead in the water for around two weeks and was too badly decomposed, she said.

She was unable to say they were Dorset's first casualties of the year from huge drift nets from trawlers working the English Channel.

However dead dolphins have been washed up in Devon and Cornwall as a result of fishing this year. Last year 30 found their way to Dorset's shores and more than 200 drowned, crushed or injured common porpoises and dolphins reached the West Country.

If people do come across dead or injured marine mammals on the shore they are warned to stay away from them and summon assistance.

"Do not approach them and keep children and dogs at a distance," warned Jenny. She said they could have died from diseases or pests and could constitute a health hazard.

She urged people to contact a local countryside warden, beach inspector or local authority and for any live mammals contact her, Jenny Waldron of Southern Marine Life Rescue on 07876 013053.