Over 40 reports of marine mammals rescued along the Yorkshire coast last year
British Divers Marine Life Rescue says animals are becoming tangled in things like plastic packaging, ghost nets and ropes
Dozens of seals and other marine mammals have needed help along the Yorkshire coast after being trapped by rubbish in the sea.
British Divers Marine Life Rescue received more than 40 calls about animals caught in plastic and fishing gear last year, which can lead to injury, starvation or drowning.
The group says young seals are especially at risk and more prevention is needed.
A spokesperson said: "While BDMLR volunteers are able to assist, prevention remains key. The presence of discarded plastic waste in our seas continues to pose a significant and avoidable threat to marine wildlife across our UK coastlines."
Anyone seeing a marine mammal in distress should report it to the BDMLR hotline.