AMAZING! The first signs of spring are upon us.

I have just encountered a rare sighting of the creature known as the lesser spotted street sweeper, having no doubt just emerged from its long winter slumber in hibernation.

It is immediately recognised by its bright day-glo crested nest and long, broom-handled plumage -- a remarkable sight to behold on the streets of Ossy!

Perhaps it will now sweep down on New Lane and give us a chance to witness its peculiar mating ritual, more commonly known as sweeping.

TIM BRENNAN, New Lane, Oswaldtwistle.