Only one roost of bats is known in South Tyneside

The council's Countryside Team has been working with cemetery officials in the borough to protect bats.

Members of Whitburn Community Association have helped make 24 have boxes which are now hanging in Jarrow cemetery.

They will be monitored for any sign of the flying mammals.

Signs of use

Bats are rarely seen in South Tyneside and only one roost has been discovered so far.

Nature Reserves Officer Clare Rawcliffe said: "In an urban place like South Tyneside, cemeteries are vital to wildlife as they have large numbers of trees and plants to provide food and shelter.

"All bat boxes are numbered and will be checked by a licensed bat worker for signs of use."

The results will be printed in the council's Countryside News and Events magazine each winter so those who helped make the boxes can monitor their usage.

Anyone who knows of a bat roost is asked to contact Clare Rawcliffe on 0191 4247423.