A humpback whale has been reported off the Suffolk coast – almost a year after the county’s first ever recorded sighting caused a stir among wildlife enthusiasts.

RSPB Minsmere nature reserve was made aware of the sighting via the Bird Guides reporting service at 11.30am this morning.

Reserve spokesman Ian Barthorpe stressed he had been unable to identify the person making the reports or determine how credible they were, however, he understands the whale was seen heading in a southerly direction, a “good distance” off the shore.

It comes almost a year after the first ever humpback sighting was made from the reserve.

Mr Ballard, who was one of the fortunate few to observe the whale in November 2013, said the previous sighting created a great deal of media interest and excitement among visitors.

“It was a sight I never expected to see off the Suffolk coast so it would be very nice if there was another one,” he said.

“We know there are one or two in the North Sea, but it’s also a concern when they are seen coming close to shore.”

Last year’s sighting was accompanied by several more in Norfolk, which took place over a number of days.

Suffolk Wildlife Trust, which recorded last year’s sighting as being the first in the county, said the latest reports would need photographic evidence and the confirmation of an expert to be verified.

Humpbacks usually follow migratory patterns along the continental shelf to the west of Britain and rarely venture into the North Sea unless disorientated.

The video in this web story is of last year’s sighting.