Dolphins visit Weymouth Harbour (photos)

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Dorset Media/REX Shutterstock (4710830e)Dolphins in Weymouth Harbour, DorsetDolphins in Weymouth Harbour, Dorset, Britain - 25 Apr 2015

Residents in Weymouth were treated to a visit from two young dolphins on Saturday.

The dolphins were spotted swimming in Weymouth Harbour and were watched by a crowd of people.

One witness told the Dorset Echo: "Seeing the dolphins has made my day.

"I have lived in Weymouth for years and I've never seen them.

"Usually they can be spotted quite a way off shore but to see them this close was very special."

According to the BBC, they were common dolphins, a breed which normally gathers in large groups in deep waters.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Dorset Media/REX Shutterstock (4710830a)Dolphins in Weymouth Harbour, DorsetDolphins in Weymouth Harbour, Dorset, Britain - 25 Apr 2015

Peter Evans, from the Sea Watch Foundation, said: "Although they are called 'common' they don't normally come into harbours.

"We don't know why individual dolphins come into such inshore areas, often surrounded by boats. Sometimes it is because one is sick or injured and its companion wants to remain close by it."

It is believed the pair has now returned back to the sea.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Dorset Media/REX Shutterstock (4710830d)Dolphins in Weymouth Harbour, DorsetDolphins in Weymouth Harbour, Dorset, Britain - 25 Apr 2015

In 2013, tourists in London were left amazed when they spotted a pod of dolphins swimming up the River Thames.

Three mammals were seen swimming to historic Tower Bridge – apparently in search of food.

Some surprised holidaymakers dialled 999.

The Met's Marine Policing Unit tweeted: "Just received reports of 2-3 'Dolphins' passing Bermondsey Wall East heading up river towards Tower Bridge!'

They later added: "The dolphins appear to be taking in the London sights whilst they wait for the tide to turn & then will make a safe return to sea #clever"