Stolen monkeys recovered in raid

The monkeys had been donated to the farm. Photo: Bristol Zoo

Two rare monkeys stolen from a farm in County Durham have been found at a house in South Tyneside.

The pair of Goeldi's monkeys were taken from their cage at Tweddle Animal Farm, Blackhall Colliery, on 22 June.

Following a tip-off, they were recovered by police during a raid at a property in Wapping Street, South Shields, on Thursday.

A 21-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of burglary and bailed pending further inquiries.

The animals have been returned to the farm and owner Denise Wayman said she was relieved and delighted to have them back.

It was hoped the pair, which had been donated to the farm, would breed as there are thought to be only about 10 Goeldi's monkeys in the UK.