More than 40 pilot whales dead after mass stranding on Scottish beach

Police have instructed members of the public to avoid the area to allow the mammals the greatest chance of survival

Pilot whales are small whales characterised as part of the dolphin family (Andrew Milligan/PA)

More than 40 pilot whales have died following a “mass stranding” on a Scottish beach.

Marine rescuers were called to the scene at Traigh Mhor in North Tolsta, on the Isle of Lewis, to reports that dozens of the mammals were in difficulty there on Sunday morning.