The ship yards, the steel works, tanneries and one of the largest chemical factorys in Europe all used the river Tees to bring raw materials in and move the finished products out.
The river today is a much quieter place to spend time, both for wildlife and people a like.
At low tide the Common or Harbour Seal can often been seen basking in the sunshine sleeping off a meal of Salmon, they can be seen all year round and live upto 36 years.
Spend a moment or two along the banks of the River Tees and you'll be surprised at the amount and varity of wildlife that can be spotted.