A resilient grey seal named 'Commuter' has been successfully rescued by a dedicated team of volunteers after enduring a six-year ordeal with a plastic ring tightly wrapped around its neck.

The plucky marine creature had been tracked by the Seal Research Trust since September 2017.

However, his routine trips to inaccessible areas along the Cornwall coast had made previous rescue attempts impossible.

That was until a recent sighting by SRT surveyor Andy Rogers provided a rare opportunity for a daring rescue mission.

The operation involved experienced handlers from the British Divers Marine Life Rescue and specialised equipment, as adult seals present additional risks to rescuers due to their size and defensive nature.

The officers caught Commuter on the north coast on January 14 and removed the paint tin seal wrapped around his neck. Authorities said his injuries were 'not as deep as feared.'

The successful rescue marks a significant achievement for both Commuter and the rescue team, showcasing their commitment to wildlife conservation.

Seal Research Trust director Sue Sayer MBE said: 'Waiting for a rescue to be organised is hugely stressful.

'Despite Andy's best efforts to speak to visitors and explain the situation's need for caution, people on the clifftop still managed to disturb the seals below on three occasions.

'Over the next couple of hours, a third of the seals stampeded into the sea to get away from the perceived threat and Andy's optimism for a possible rescue was dwindling.

'Luckily, Commuter remained sleeping, so the first opportunity to rescue him in six years was not lost.'