The pups were rehabilitated at the RSPCA's Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Nantwich after being rescued in poor health by the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR).

The seals were orphaned, underweight, or suffering from respiratory problems or injuries when they arrived at the centre.

They were rescued in poor health (Image: RSPCA) Lee Stewart, manager at RSPCA Stapeley Grange, said: "After months of care and rehabilitation, our final group of grey seal pups for the season has been successfully released back to the east coast.

"Thanks to our wonderful, dedicated team here at RSPCA Stapeley Grange who tube-fed them by hand in the early days and worked hard to get them fit, we've been able to return Bert, Ernie, Yolanda, Fozzie, and Floyd Pepper to the sea where they belong."

The centre names its seal pups based on a theme each year.

This year, the team chose characters from The Muppets, a TV classic from the 1970s.

Female seal Yolanda and male pups Floyd Pepper, Bert, Fozzie, and Ernie were admitted between March and April.

By early June, all had gained enough weight and improved in health to be safely released.

The pups were named after characters from The Muppets (Image: RSPCA) Mr Stewart said: "Raising and rehabilitating seals is no easy task – it takes time, effort, and significant resources but every moment and every pound spent is worth it."

Stapeley Grange is one of only a handful of UK wildlife centres equipped to rehabilitate seal pups.

"Raising and rehabilitating seals is no easy task" (Image: RSPCA) The RSPCA has also reminded the public to avoid approaching seal pups on beaches, as they are often not abandoned.

In most cases, pups left alone by their mothers are not in distress and should be monitored from a safe distance for 24 hours.

If a seal pup appears healthy, it is best to leave it undisturbed.

The public can find more advice on the RSPCA’s website.