Watch paddleboarder have incredible close encounter with Gavin the Seal on the River Arun

John Mitchell was treated to a visit by the sociable seal yesterday (September 28), as it hopped onto his paddleboard and lounged around for a few seconds.

The seal, named Gavin the Seal by locals, is a familiar face in the river, regularly swimming alongside people using the water.

But despite the animal's sociable nature, the public are regularly warned not to approach or try to touch him as Gavin is still a wild animal.

That hasn't stopped Gavin getting his own Facebook page, Gavin the Littlehampton Harbour seal.