Springer spaniel Jess is beaming with pride after she gave birth to 12 puppies.

The dog belongs to Chris and Angela Gillings, who run a guest house in Mickleton, County Durham.

And although the couple were surprised at the size of the litter, it did not come as a complete shock to them because their late spaniel Spice was mother to 11 puppies.

"We thought that was quite something, but Jess has gone one better with a dozen, " said Mrs Gillings, who is now finding homes for the new arrivals.