River seal colony sets pup record

The previous highest total of pup births was eight

A seal colony along the River Tees has broken its annual breeding record by producing 12 pups.

The group of about 70 harbour seals live around the mudflats of Seal Sands and conservationists say the new record shows their habitat is thriving.

The previous highest total of pup births was eight, in 2006 and 2007.

The colony is believed to be the first in Europe to re-establish itself after being driven away by development and human disturbance in the 19th Century.

Robert Woods, a conservation officer for the Industry Nature Conservation Association, said: "We are delighted to have recorded 12 pups, which is a big jump from last year.

"It is a good indicator of the health of the River Tees so this is fantastic news."

There are also more than 20 grey seals living along the Tees, but this species does not breed locally.