A seal lovingly named ’Windo’ by visitors has captured the hearts of Dartmouth, but left onlookers horrified as they watched a man viciously turf him off his spot.

First spotted over half term, the seal was seen occasionally hopping on and off a dinghy along the River Dart, one of many residents enjoying the sunny weather.

Not even the grey weather on Friday, May 30, could frighten Windo off, as he/she continued to guard the sunbathing spot.

But the fun in the sun soon came to a close when a man was seen ramming the dingy, in successful attempts to knock the poor seal off, reported both The Mirror and Devon Live.

Some Facebook users have since identified the man as ’Rick’.

Whilst the news was upsetting, it appears Windo has returned once again, spotted on Wednesday, June 5 resting his/her head on the commandeered vessel.

We’ll be keeping our eyes pealed to see if this beloved celebrity sticks around.