Most people would run a million miles if they saw a fearsome great white shark on the ground in front of them - but this group rushed to save its life.

The man-eater had become stranded on White Crest Beach in Wellfeet, Massachusetts, and was desperately trying to return to water.

But as it lay on the sand around 20 metres from the ocean, the majestic animal was unable to get close.

Amazingly, a group of people who were on the beach at the time tried their best to rescue it.

Despite the fearsome reputation of great white sharks, the group were not daunted by approaching the 11-foot predator and set out to put their plan into action.

While dozens of people started digging out a trench in the sand, others used sandcastle buckets to pour water over the shark to keep it alive.

Eventually a rescue team managed to pull the shark into the water via the trench that had been formed.

Once back in the sea, the shark was towed in circles to get water flowing over its gills to revive it.

Sadly, despite the best efforts of all involved, the shark died.

State shark scientist Greg Skomal said sharks will often get trapped on land when they come into shallow waters searching for food.

He told Cape Cod Times: “This could be one of those instances where a big animal gets into shallow water and can’t get back out.

"Those sharks are going to come in, and sometimes they will make a mistake and fail.”

Local police said the shark in question appeared to be sick of injured when it was discovered on the beach.

Pics: Wellfleet Police Department