Ref. 25774-14WINGED creatures great and small were the focus of a wildlife weekend at Lydiard Park.

The Wonderful Wings Weekend organised for the first time by Swindon Wildlife Trust, brought together a diverse range of voluntary groups concerned with the preservation of birds and insects.

Swindon Wildlife Officer Neil Pullen explained: "The idea is to highlight the wonderful biodiversity of wildlife that we have in the area.

"It is a chance for people to learn more about the vast range of winged creatures that live in the area. It is 48 hours dedicated to our flying friends."

Visitors to the two-day event had the chance to take part in a range of organised walks led by wildlife experts including a butterfly and dragonfly walk.

To catch the nocturnal creatures, the event also included organised walks in the evening searching for bats, moths and owls.

Other attractions included story telling, face painting, craft activities, a falconry display and a chance to talk to bee keeping experts and sample some of their locally produced honey.

One of the most popular exhibits gave visitors the chance to meet a pair of baby blackbirds who were found by a member of the public and are being looked after by Swindon Council ranger Sue Hulbert, who runs a wildlife sanctuary.

Event co-ordinator Helen Senior was enthusiastic about the weekend: "We are delighted that so many people turned out. This is the first of its kind and we hope to hold something similar next year."

The event, which was free to the public, was sponsored by energy firm Innogy.