Brighton named the 'seagull attack hotspot' of the UK

A seaside resort has been named the UK's seagull attack hotspot.

Brighton is the place where these birds are known to attack the most, according to a new WhichBingo survey.

The survey, which was completed by 2,000 people from across the country, found that almost 20 per cent of survey participants had experienced a run-in with a seagull in the city.

It was also found that 43 per cent of survey participants had been targeted by the birds at some point in their lives.

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Almost one in three attacks had resulted in people being cut on the head and most of the attacks happened when birds had tried to steal chips.

Spokesman Charlie Shakespeare said: “Our research shows almost half of all UK holidaymakers have had a run-in with aggressive seagulls.

“Whether they are stealing chips, dive-bombing loved pets or grabbing anything they can get their beaks on they have become a real seaside menace.

"Unfortunately, nothing discourages them and they seem to be getting bolder than ever.”

Blackpool Beach ranked as the second most common place to be attacked by a seagull, followed by Scarborough.

Like all other wild birds, gulls are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

What should I do if I'm attacked?

Lift your arms to protect your head if a seagull begins swooping at you. Keep your arms above your head, but don't wave them around.

Move away from the area until the gull stops attacking you. Waving your arms around to try and fend off the seagull may just aggravate it more and make the attack worse.