MARINE experts were today combing the River Clyde as hopes faded for the dolphin which has captured Glasgow's heart.

The ailing mammal, a deep water species, was last spotted close to the Erskine Bridge after spending the past two days in the Clyde.

The 10ft-long Risso's dolphin first appeared in the city early on Sunday morning near the SECC.

The creature surprised onlookers and dozens gathered to catch a glimpse of him swimming near the Squinty Bridge.

It was affectionately dubbed Disco Dave because it was seen with a bag of Disco crisps on his fin.

Vets say the injured dolphin is unlikely to survive.

But a major search of the Clyde will be carried out today.

Nick Duthie, of the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), said: "It is not possible to grab the animal in the water due to the health and safety of the rescue team and the enormous stress it would cause to the animal.

"Today we will mount a major search of the Clyde to try to find the animal but if it does not appear we can only assume it has headed out to sea. If the animal strands it will then be possible to attend to it and assess its condition."

According to the BDMLR, Risso's dolphins are a deep water species and it is rare for one to be seen in shallow water.

Volunteers from the BDMLR, the UK's leading marine animal rescue organisation, have been monitoring the animal, but it is said to be in an emaciated state and has a gash above its left eye.

Anyone who spots the dolphin should contact BDMLR on 01825 765546.