A BIRDS of prey visitor attraction, run by a husband and wife team, has opened to visitors.

Walworth Castle Birds of Prey, near Darlington, is set in eight acres of woodland.

Married couple Tori Goodall and David Toms are behind the attraction, which features more than 20 birds.

A kestrel, peregrine falcon, hawks and owls are among the attractions.

Ms Goodall said: “We wanted to build a home for the birds in a natural setting, to promote the conservation of these wonderful birds and help educate people about these birds of prey.

“It has been hard work, but we are really pleased so far and the site has so much potential for further development over the next few years, we can’t wait for people to come and visit.”

The couple are passionate about not only their own team of birds of prey but also the conservation of our own native birds and they dedicate a lot of their time rehabilitating wild, injured birds.

Alex Nicholson, network leader for Teesdale Women in Rural Enterprise, said: “The birds of prey site is such a natural and peaceful setting with the castle as a backdrop.

“It is evident that Tori and David have incredible passion for these birds, their drive to create a falconry centre is inspirational.”