A CONSERVATION project near Andover had a special visitor over the weekend.

BBC Springwatch presenter Chris Packham officially opened a new rehabilitation aviary wing at the Hawk Conservancy Trust – home of the National Bird of Prey Hospital.

On Sunday Chris, who is the president of the Hawk Conservancy Trust, cut the ribbon of the new purpose-built aviaries.

Each year more than 200 sick, injured or orphaned wild raptors can be admitted to the hospital.

The birds are treated and cared for by expert avian vet John Chitty and an experienced and dedicated team of staff at the hospital.

The new wing, situated adjacent to the hospital, consists of five aviaries and eight bays, and can house up to 25 birds.

The aviaries have been built as a result of generous donations from the senior members of Wycombe Heights Golf Centre and the Hawk Conservancy Trust 100 Club.