BIRDS of prey expert Andrew Rushton is training his children to handle his collection of falcons, hawks and owls.

He was delighted when nine-year-old Emily and 13-year-old Gareth took an interest in his aviary in Trawden.

Andrew, 34, a picture framer by trade, trained at the National Birds of Prey Centre in Gloucestershire and started his collection eight years ago.

Now he is passing on his skills to Emily and Gareth who will probably assist him at the birds' next appearance at Trawden Agricultural Show in August.

Andrew said: "Children show a great interest in the birds and it is great to see such enthusiasm from Emily and Gareth."

Picture: Andrew shows his daughter Emily, nine, how to handle a barn owl.