CHILDREN from the North-East became maritime archaeologists for the day in their search for the remains of Redcar pier.

The youngsters worked on the beach with their parents and Tees Archaeology to help carry out research about the structure, which was destroyed more than 100 years ago.

The Cleveland Divers were also on hand in full diving gear to collect sea creatures, including lobsters, hermit crabs and jellyfish for the children to inspect.

Gary Green, from Tees Archaeology, said: "The people who have come along today have been real marine archaeologists for the day and have been carrying out real survey work, which we will be using as we have never surveyed this area before.

"They have been measuring the onshore wreckage and some people have even taken their sheets home to record the results for us.

"The weather has been lousy, but the kids and parents seem to have enjoyed themselves."

Redcar pier was built between 1871 and 1873.

Its first setback came in 1888 when the bandstand at the end of the pier burnt down, supposedly after a paper lantern was dropped. Due to a lack of funding, the section was never rebuilt.

The pier's landing stage was later demolished when a paddle steamer collided into it and several ships were driven into the pier during stormy weather.

Mr Green said: "During World War Two, sections of the pier were deliberately removed in case the Germans used it to get troops ashore.

"The pier ended up being just a quarter of its original length and most people just remember the pier ballroom, which was at its end."

The pier was finally demolished in 1981