Gliding across the snow with ease and grace, this grey seal pup appears to be gearing up for the next Winter Olympics or a skate off with former world champions Torvill and Dean.

The seal, which has been named Pompeii Worm, is among eight which have been moved into temporary accommodation at the overcrowded RSPCA East Winch Wildlife Centre but are enjoying life in the freezing temperatures.

The centre is currently coping with an unprecedented number of grey seals – 58 – and with the other outdoor seal pools already full, staff had to commandeer the swan pool to make room for the pups.

Centre manager Alison Charles said: 'It's fair to say that some of our staff are not as big fans of the snow as the seals. The cold weather can prove a challenge, ensuring that the water pipes don't burst, dealing with frozen hoses, and making sure that our supplies are stocked up.

'However, this isn't something the pups have to worry about and the grey seals all seem to be having a great time sliding down the slopes on the ice.'

The seal pups will remain at the centre until they reach their release weight of between 40 and 45kg.

Mrs Charles continued: 'The seals cope very well with this weather and appear to really enjoy flopping over the snow-covered grass. This is the final stage for the pups before they are returned to the wild.

'The pups outside have been recovering in isolation, then intermediate pools, and now have a layer of blubber to protect them from the cold. When they came in they were emaciated and dehydrated, but with lots of good nutrition and care they have recovered well.

'So when our faces are numb from the cold and we can't feel our fingers, we all still manage to find a smile, especially when watching the seals playing in the snow.'

To find out more about sponsoring a seal or to make a donation, call 0300 123 0709 or e-mail eastwinch@rspca.org.uk