Minster has 'fingers crossed' for falcon chicks

One of Britain's largest parish churches could welcome new arrivals this summer in the form of peregrine falcon chicks.

Officials at Beverley Minster said they were keeping their "fingers crossed" after two falcons settled in one of the towers for only the second time in a decade.

The Rev Canon Jonathan Baker, vicar at the minster, said: "We can encourage them by putting in a nesting box, but it's up to them to decide where is the most suitable place to nest. It's all quite exciting."

A spokesperson for the RSPB said: "People visiting Beverley will be in for a treat this summer if they can successfully raise a family in the minster."

Baker said the falcons were drawn to the height of the building.

"Being the highest place round here, its a natural spot for the peregrines to head for.

"We don't know if there are any chicks yet, but we are all very hopeful."

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust thanked the minster for accommodating the "wonderful species".

Jonathan Leadley, regional head of operations at the trust, said: "It's really exciting to hear they have returned.

"We really hope this pair is successful and rears the next generation of peregrine falcons."

According to the RSPB, peregrine falcons almost disappeared from the UK in the 1960s due to illegal killing, pesticide poisoning and loss of habitat.

However, changes to the law and better protections meant their numbers had recovered.

"More people are able to view these spectacular birds of prey in the skies above towns like Beverley," the RSPB spokesperson added.

The minister said flags usually flown during religious festivals would not be raised until September in order to avoid disturbing the protected species.

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