A SURVEY carried out on a stretch of the River Wansbeck that flows through the National Trust's Wallington Estate has revealed this area as one of the top sites in England for the endangered White-clawed crayfish.

The White-clawed crayfish is one of Britain's most endangered native animals. Numbers have declined dramatically as a result of the impact of the American signal crayfish which are larger, more aggressive and carry the crayfish plague.

The survey work was carried out by National Trust Warden John Jamieson over a two week period. Data and information gathered has been used to help evaluate the abundance of the White-clawed crayfish, any threats to the population from the American signal crayfish and the quality of the habitat.

John said: "Results from this survey have confirmed that the River Wansbeck is an internationally important stronghold for the White-clawed crayfish. We now have the data to help focus our work on how we can further strengthen their habitats and make sure that the crayfish can flourish."