The red squirrels are given special feeders

It is 60 years since the native squirrel has lived in Yorkshire, having been replaced by its American cousin, the grey squirrel.

But now, thanks to the conservation work of landowner Hugh Kemp, they are coming back.

His farm near Hawes in Wensleydale now has 15 of the brightly coloured species.

Mr Kemp has created a haven on his 50-acre plot, which 35 years ago had just six trees.

Now there is a mix of alder, cherry, oak and other native species encouraging wildlife such as roe deers, hares, kingfishers and now the red squirrel.

Hugh Kemp: Squirrel man

"They are very endearing," said Mr Kemp. "They are funny little fellows - like circus acrobats."

Initially, the farmer was growing Christmas trees on his land and he found when they were planted in the woodlands it encouraged wildlife.

He has worked with experts from the Department of the Environment and Rural Affairs to encourage the local population, which is thought to have spread from Cumbria using the conifer forests of Garsdale.

The red squirrels are helped along by adapted feeders, which if attacked by the heavier greys give way.

Red squirrels, which are extinct in the south of England, are protected by law.