Polecats, which were almost wiped out in Britain

Polecats, which were almost wiped out in Britain in the last century, have made a remarkable comeback, conservationists say.

The results of a nationwide survey reveal that the animals are spreading into areas where they have not been seen for 100 years.

The research was carried out by the Vincent Wildlife Trust.

Lizzie Croose, who led the survey, said: "It's brilliant, it's a real conservation success story."

She added: "This is something we really need to celebrate, the recovery of a native carnivore that we once almost lost completely."

Naturalist and BBC presenter Chris Packham added: "It's one of the great natural recoveries.read more and see video-"http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-35386042