Three-year-old George and Mildred were found by police during a raid on a home in Wapping Street, South Shields, on Thursday.

The breeding pair of Goeldi monkeys, worth £4,000, had been reported stolen three weeks ago from Tweedle Animal Farm in County Durham.
The animals had been taken in an overnight raid by thieves at the site in Fillpoke Lane, Blackhall Colliery.

Now, the monkeys are back in their enclosure, Denise Wayman, who has owned the farm for six years with her husband Peter, says she can't thank police enough for their return.

"We were called to come to South Shields police station on Thursday to collect the monkeys," said the 39-year-old.

"When we saw them, their fur was matted and greasy, and they were a bit skinny. But they seem to be OK now they're back in their enclosure. They seem quite happy.

"I just can't understand why they were taken, apart from that they are a rare breed. To be honest, we thought they would have been out of the country. So to be told they were in South Shields, we just can't understand it."

The Goeldi monkeys originate from South America and are on a list of endangered species. It is thought there are only about 10 of these animals in captivity in the UK.

George and Mildred are on loan to the farm in the hope they would breed.

Mrs Wayman added: "Without the help of Durham and Northumbria Police, we would never have got them back.

"We have called our vet who will be coming to check them, but at the minute we are just leaving them be. We are trying not to stress them out as they have been through so much."

Four walkie talkie radios and chargers, and a £50 cash float were also taken during the burglary on June 22.

A 21-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of burglary and bailed pending further inquiries.