A DEAD seal lay rotting on Barassie beach for more than three weeks despite being reported to the council. 

A concerned Troon resident said it was ‘disgusting’ that the animal had been left for so long, and criticised the lack of action from the council despite the potential risk to public health.

Margot Carson said: “It’s horrible that it is still lying there. 

“I’ve called South Ayrshire Council lots of times, and trying to deal with Environmental Health and I’ve been getting nowhere.

“They keep telling me that it’s waste management who will sort it. 

“Lots of people use the beach, something needs done.”

Mike Newall, Head of Neighbourhood Services said: “Our waste management teams work hard to manage our network of beaches and respond to issues reported by the public as quickly as we can. 

“I can confirm that the remains of the seal have been removed from Barassie beach and disposed of hygienically.” 

If an animal is found alive and in distress people are urged to get in touch with the SSPCA to get help. 

Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn from the SSPCA said: “Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed animal should call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”