THE South essex Wildlife Hospital has highlighted one of the dangers of people not disposing of their rubbish - particularly Covid-19 protection kit - properly after it was called on to save the life of a young seagull.

The bird was taken to the hospital in Orsett - which is supported by local Co-op stores as one of its community charities - by the RSPCA.

The gull had a disposable face mask tangled round its legs.

A spokesperson for the hospital - which is volunteer-funded - said: "As it has been there a while the poor bird's limbs and joints are swollen.

"Hopefully with the corrected veterinary care he will soon recover."

You can find out more about the hospital and how to donatehere.