CONSERVATION volunteers have reported good news after an endangered red squirrel was spotted in a new area.

The Brampton and District Red Squirrel Group reported the sighting last week.

Once common throughout the UK, populations of red squirrels have been in decline for decades because of factors like the invasive grey squirrel, habitat loss and diseases such as Squirrelpox.

Cumbria however is one of the places where they can still be seen in England.

Paul Bassindale, secretary of the group, did not want to give the precise location, but said it was in the Forest Head area south of Brampton.

Last month another had been spotted in the Greenwell area - they had not been seen there for 15 years.

He said this could be a sign of a resurgent population and added: "It is more likely to be good news when you see more red squirrels in areas because it could relate to the density of population, they are expanding and looking for new territory."

Paul paid tribute to the "hard work" of the group's volunteers in keeping the species going in the area.

They will remain vigilant however because there is a possibility that grey squirrels could have driven them out from another area because they 'out compete' the reds for food.

He added: "If there is a large influx of grey squirrels there would not be enough food and the two species don't get on anyway."

The group are keen for anyone to report sightings of red or grey squirrels in the area.

For information, or to volunteer, go online to: www.facebook.com/BramptonDistrictRedSquirrelGroup

Alternatively ring 07917 877303.