IT seems that there will be no happy ending to the heartrending story of Freddie the seal – who was attacked by a dog as he basked in the sun by the river Thames.

Earlier today (Monday, 22 March) Thurrock Nub News reported on the story of the seal that was badly bitten and rushed by firefighters to Tilbury docks and in turn to Orsett's South Essex Wildlife hospital.

Initially it seemed hopeful that Freddie, a much-rescued animal who had been a previous patient at the hospital and also saved twice from jeopardy in the Netherlands, would make it through.

But sadly, this evening, it seems time and luck has finally run out for the much-loved seal pup.

A statement from the hospital this evening says: "Ourselves and the experts at British Divers Marine Life Rescue have consulted several specialist marine and orthopedic vets and as we strongly suspected having taken x-rays this morning the prognosis is extremely poor.

"Freddie's flipper is fractured and the joint dislocated. Seals do not take anaesthetic well as they have a dive reflex and don't breath.

"Although an attempt could be made to pin the fracture, it would be impossible to immobilise the limb to give it time to heal. More challenging is the dislocation which is not repairable.

"The flipper is very swollen and despite antibiotics and pain relief the seal is clearly very uncomfortable and reluctant to eat. We suspect the infection is spreading and with the other bite wounds to his body he is very miserable.

"At this stage we believe the only ethical and fair option we have is to end his suffering.