A basking shark has been spotted off the coast of Cumbria.

The huge creature was seen on Easter Monday in the stretch of sea between Seascale and Sellafield.

Basking sharks are notoriously elusive and rarely seen in local waters.

They are not dangerous, eating only plankton.

Living Seas North West confirmed the sighting, and said there is a strong chance of more.

A post on its Facebook page said: "Basking sharks (Cetorhinus maximus) are the second largest fish in the world.

"They are regular visitors to the Irish Sea in the summer months, however these illusive creatures are rarely seen from the coast of Cumbria."

It added that the sharks are not a threat to humans.

"Don't worry, there is no need to fear these gentle giants as they only eat plankton.

"The warm, still weather and plentiful plankton could mean that now is a good time to spot our ocean giants such as basking sharks, dolphins and porpoises.

"So keep your eyes peeled when you are out on the coast and let us know if you see one."