A mum has issued a warning after being "surrounded" by jellyfish in seconds on the beach, with some "bigger than her head".
Kate Lally, 33, was stunned to see dozens of the creatures wash up on the sand after going for a stroll along Formby Beach on Wednesday, May 31.
She wasn't paying attention as she walked with her headphones in, before almost stepping on one, which she said was one of the largest jellyfish she'd ever seen.
Kate said: "I go to Formby beach quite often and I've never seen jellyfish that big, they were bigger than my head. I was listening to a podcast so I wasn't giving my full attention to exactly where I was walking and I almost stood on it. I was only on the beach for 15 minutes or so and I saw dozens of them washed up."
Kate was previously stung by a number of jellyfish in July 2021 on her arm and upper legs, with the stings causing discomfort on her skin. As such, she said the sight of the creatures made her "shudder".
She said: "I wouldn't let it put me off going to the beach but I do think people need to be careful especially if they've got young kids or pets with them."
Vicky Blane, General Manager for Formby Beach at the National Trust said: "During the summer months jellyfish can often be spotted in the sea around the UK. At Formby you might spot varieties like the harmless barrel jellyfish, or the compass jellyfish that can give you a painful sting.
"Although most jellyfish found in the UK do not cause serious harm, we advise anyone stung by a jellyfish to seek medical attention. You can avoid jellyfish stings by staying alert for the sight of them in the water, as well as on the beach.
"We also recommend swimming shoes for anyone taking a dip in the sea."
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
READ NEXT:
Lord Provost of Glasgow's limousine banned from city centre as LEZ comes into force
Reckless Celtic fans set off firework into packed crowd during title celebrations in Glasgow
Man gets revenge on neighbour who got him £200 fine for parking in own drive
Scots family launch petition after 'silent killer' condition killed young daughter
New video from Donald Trump's second Scots golf course angers celebs and environmentalists
