The BBC’s Countryfile have been filming at the National Seal Sanctuary, Gweek, this week with the story to be shown on this Sunday’s episode.

On Monday the team filmed at the Sanctuary, following the hoped for release of their unusual seal pup, April.

April was brought to the Sanctuary in 2008 in very odd circumstances; she had been born completely out of breeding season. Breeding in seals usually occurs between September and February, and the pup was rescued by the team in April after becoming washed up on a beach in Newquay, when she was only two days old.

Having no other younger pups to learn from as they had all been released, April took longer than usual to learn how to eat, and is only now ready to be released back into the wild.

Hearing this story, Katrina Bradley of the Countryfile programme wished to follow April’s proposed release on Monday, and conducted filming at the Sanctuary.

“April’s story is definitely a heart warming one, and its fantastic that she is soon to be released back to her natural habitat. It’s a story that I felt would be perfect for a slot on this weeks Countryfile,” said Katrina.

Being interviewed for the documentary was Clare McGowan, senior animal care assistant at the Sanctuary. “We’re happy that April is ready for release after all this time and hard work. It was very exciting having the Countryfile down to film April’s story – especially as I watch it every week!” said Clare.

The filming consisted of following Clare’s life at the Sanctuary, focusing on the work that carries out each day and a hopeful release of April.

The outcome of the potential release date of April can be seen on the Countryfile’s programme this Sunday at 11am.