Trapped whale calf helped out to sea

Rescuers have saved a young whale calf which became trapped in an Outer Hebrides harbour.

The 14ft minke whale was coaxed out of Leverburgh Harbour, in South Harris, by volunteer kayakers yesterday.

The operation was led by the British Divers Marine Life Rescue, a charity which aids stricken mammals. Spokesman Stephen Marsh said: “We are delighted she has successfully been coaxed out and hope she doesn’t return. The minke was seen in the harbour earlier this week. An adult minke believed to be its mother was seen swimming a mile offshore.