Shark sighting closes three popular Perth beaches

Sunseekers were stopped from swimming at three popular Perth beaches on Sunday morning after a shark sighting.

Authorities received a report of a two-metre-long shark at Cottesloe Beach just before 7.30am Sunday morning.

The shark was reportedly just five metres offshore and near Cottesloe’s main groyne.

Less than an hour later Surf Life Savers at North Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club reported seeing a two-metre shark at North Cottesloe Beach about 8.15am.

It was reportedly five metres offshore and was heading north, prompting the closure of the Cottesloe, North Cottesloe and Swanbourne beaches just before 8.30am.

The Surf Life Saving helicopter was patrolling the area and spotted the shark again about 9.45am.

It was further offshore, about 40m out, and was circling the area near Vera View Beach.

The beaches were reopened before midday, with lifesavers letting swimmers back in the water about 10.45am.