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Holidaymakers in the Var have been warned to keep away from stingrays which have been relatively common along the Mediterranean coast this summer.

While there have been no reported cases of swimmers being stung this summer, authorities have decided to take no chances, after about 30 purple stingrays were spotted near the shores of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-D'azur department since the beginning of August.

They normally live out in the open seas, but the recent heatwave has seen water temperatures rise along the coast, tempting them closer to shore.

Stingrays are not normally aggressive but their stings "can cause serious neurological disorders in vulnerable people", including children, pregnant women, older people, or anyone with heart problems.

Anyone who is stung should seek urgent medical attention.