21 whales die in mass stranding (From Hampshire Chronicle)
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21 whales die in mass stranding
3:09pm Sunday 2nd September 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013
About 30 pilot whales have become stranded at Pittenweem, near St Andrews, the coastguard said
Over 20 whales have died in a mass stranding off the coast of Fife.
Some of the whales were already dead when animal rescue teams arrived on the scene at Pittenweem, near St Andrews, while a number had to be put down.
The coastguard said nine of the 30 stranded pilot whales were being kept alive by vets from British Divers and Marine Life Rescue, with help from the emergency services including Fife fire service.
It is hoped four of those animals will be refloated at high tide.
A large number of bystanders have gathered at the scene, and the coastguard has urged the public to stay away to allow rescue teams to carry out their duties.
Coastguard teams from St Andrews and Leven, Anstruther lifeboat, and Fife Police are also assisting with the incident.
