ENGLISH Nature has reported an increase in the illegal gathering of bait and shellfish on the Seal Sands area of Teesmouth national nature reserve.

No bait or shellfish collection is currently permitted on this part of the reserve, yet in May and June a number of people were spotted on the mudflats.

Site manager Mike Leakey is anxious lest these activities cause disturbance to the bird and seal populations of the reserve.

He said: "Having travelled thousands of miles getting here, the birds need to invest all their energy in refuelling ready for their return journey. If they fail to build sufficient fat reserves, through taking to the air every time people pass by, the consequences could be fatal.

"It's also a particularly sensitive time for common seals, as they have their pups in late July."

He added: "Seal Sands really is the last quiet refuge on what is now a busy and highly industrial Tees estuary, and it is vital that the actions of a few people aren't allowed to spoil it for both the wildlife and the visitors that come to enjoy it."

The police have promised assistance in dealing with any infringements of the law regarding bait collection.

Mr Leakey added: "A further problem has been caused by the publication of an article in the new issue of Sea Angler magazine, promoting fishing around Seal Sands and Greatham Creek.

"A map showing 'access walkways and fishing area' accompanies the article, but in fact virtually all the areas shown are on private land with no public access.

"While fishing is a long-established activity at North Gare, access along sea walls such as that fronting Greenabella Marsh could cause serious disruption to high-tide bird roosts."