THIS picture of a porpoise in Lydney Harbour was taken as Samantha Ford and her husband took a morning walk on Tuesday.

The unusual visitor was able to rejoin its friends after the the harbourmaster opened the dock gates at high tide.

Dr Ford said: “Although it was fairly calm at the time we found it, it could not stay in the river water for too long.

“We reported the issue by ringing a marine rescue hotline.

“Thank you to everyone who helped, especially the Lydney Harbour Master and the marine life rescue service, and to the passers-by who observed quietly and respectfully.”

Although rare, it’s not the first time porpoises have been spotted, with two being seen as high up as Tewkesbury Weir three years ago.