SUNSEEKERS had to de a double-take as a mermaid made a sprawling appearance on Brighton Beach.

Michelle Roberts, who now goes by the name of Mer-chelle, is living out her lifelong dream of life as a professional mermaid.

The London-based former actress headed south with her three stone tail and took part in a photoshoot with Gavin Gallivan of Infinitus Pixels.

She said: “The weather was perfect, bright but not too sunny - my fair skin can burn if I'm not careful.

“A few very sweet children came to say hello and have a photo which was really nice.”

Having worked as an actress, singer and performer, she found out there were women in Australia and the US working as professional mermaids.

After making a few calls and contacts, she is now forging a career out of children’s parties, swimming pool appearances, modelling and she has even worked at a bachelor party.