A 40FT whale has washed up on Clacton beach.

Essex Police said the huge animal has sadly died after washing up on Friday morning.

A cordon has been put in place and people have been told to keep away.

"Sadly a 40ft whale has been washed up on Clacton this morning," a spokesman for the force said.

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"We are currently in attendance with other organisations and discussions are under way on how to remove her.

"The area is cordoned off and the public are advised to stay away."

Residents were shocked to discover the giant whale, which was next to a rock groyne.