Whale carcass buried at Snettisham Beach more than a month after washing ashore

A “rotting” whale carcass has been buried after washing up on a village beach last month.

The RSPB, which is responsible for Snettisham Beach, has confirmed that the pilot whale has been disposed of. It first appeared on the shore in early August.

A number of local authorities were involved in the burial due to the whale’s size and location.

An RSPB spokesperson said: “Following consultation with the relevant authorities, including the Environment Agency, West Norfolk Council and West Norfolk Environmental Health and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), we have successfully disposed of the whale carcass through burial.

“This operation was carried out today (September 24) with the assistance of local contractors, M W McGinn Construction.

“Due to the whale's size and location we required input from a range of authorities to ensure the carcass was disposed of safely and responsibly.

“We appreciate the support and cooperation of everyone involved.”

However, David Crossman, a member of Snettisham Beach Sailing Club, voiced frustration at the length of time it took for the carcass to be removed.

He said the group had offered to dispose of it weeks ago with its own equipment.

“They said no, but what has happened is the body has rotted and seeped into The Wash,” Mr Crossman said.

“All that is left now is the skin. The carcass has gone.

“I am pretty cross at that, and I am going to be asking some questions.”

Last month, the BBC reported that the whale had likely been separated from a larger group, but because it was in a "really poor condition" it would not have found its way back out to sea if it survived.

It died despite efforts from the British Divers Marine Life Rescue to save it.