POLICE yesterday thanked a farming family who helped a search after a pile of men's clothing was found beside a moorland lake.

Daniel Bell, 21, discovered the clothes at the side of a tarn on Cronkley Fell, a remote spot between High Force and Cow Green, in Upper Teesdale, County Durham.

When he returned home to Cronkley Farm, more than a mile away, his mother, Christine, contacted the police.

When officers arrived to investigate, David and his father, Michael, took them to the lake on a quad bike and trailer.

The pair helped with an initial search on Good Friday, then, on Saturday, used the quad bike and trailer to ferry a police diving team to and from the scene.

Sergeant Bob Danby said: "Michael, Christine and David Bell were most helpful. It was a difficult place to reach, and the assistance they gave us was very much appreciated."

The moors were searched by 16 members of Teesdale and Weardale Search and Rescue, but nothing was found.

Sgt Danby said no one in the area had been reported missing.

The clothing, including trousers, underpants and socks, was neatly folded and left close to the water's edge.

Mrs Bell said: "We often find hats or scarfs on the fell, but it was strange to discover clothing like this. Why it was put there is a complete mystery."