THE disappearance of a bird of prey from a North-East falconry centre has sparked an online appeal to find the missing creature.

Tom, a falcon from Walworth Castle Birds of Prey, near Darlington, vanished during a routine display at the castle after blustery conditions sent him off course.

The bird failed to return to falconers who have cared for Tom ever since he was hatched in captivity.

His upbringing has led falconers at Walworth Castle to urge members of the public to look out for the bird of prey, who may not be able to hunt for himself.

Tom was last tracked to the Hartlepool area on Tuesday (July 12) after he became confused and strayed off course on Saturday, July 2.

Falconer, Tori Goodall, has taken to social media in a bid to find the bird and is using #FindTom on Twitter.

In a post to Facebook, Ms Goodall said: “I can't give up and I won't, I have a duty of care to every bird in our collection and anyone that has been to the centre will know that the care is 110 per cent for each and every bird.

“Tom deserves me to give my all to get him home safe and I won't relax until that's happened.”

Tom has been microchipped and could still be wearing a radio transmitter that is secured to his leg with green tape.

Information or sightings of the falcon can be passed on using the #FindTom hashtag or by calling Walworth Castle Birds of Prey on 01325-608100.