ONE of the newest additions to a birds of prey centre has been wowing the crowds with spectacular flying displays.

The centre, at Sion Hill Hall, in Kirby Wiske, North Yorkshire, is now home to Borris, a 12-year-old Russian golden eagle.

Borris has a wingspan of nearly 7ft and weighs 8lb.

He is the first golden eagle to live at the centre in its 12-year history.

The centre, which has more than 80 birds and 34 different species, bought him from Russia in January and since then staff have been training him for flying displays.

He has now taken to the skies three times and staff say visitors have been thrilled by what they have seen.

Head falconer Ben Potter said: "A golden eagle is just the ultimate out of all the birds of prey. It is universally recognised and people are just awe-struck by him.

"They are very beautiful birds and not ugly like a buzzard or bald eagle. He is a wonderfully quiet natured bird. We are pleased with him all round."

At the moment, Borris is only flying during the quieter shows until he gets more used to his surroundings.

Mr Potter said: "So far, he has been fantastic but they are quite unpredictable."

The centre puts on three flying displays every day between March 1 and October 31, featuring hawks, falcons, owls and buzzards.