Dolphin Quest has had its first confirmed sighting of what was believed to be its missing animals for weeks.

Spokesperson Lynn Hassell said a businessman had spotted Dolber and Gibbs swimming 200 yards out in Horseshoe Bay, Southampton yesterday morning.

Dolphin Quest staffer Melody Smith then confirmed the sighting and the company sent out a boat and put five spotters along the South Shore.

Ms Hassell said: "We are very excited by this although we can't be 100 percent sure they are ours.'' She said the company had issued staff with radios and cell phones to provide a prompt response if the pair were seen again.

And she denied the dolphins would fail to recognise staff after being missing for three months.

She said: "Their trainers often go away for three or four months, but the animals don't forget them.'' The company is now considering setting up a weekend search. If you spot any dolphins, call 239-6957.