If you have a chance to come along to Top Lodge between now and Sunday, do be sure to look into the Big Barn. This renovated 18th century farm building is where we show footage of a red kite nest each year, following the chicks from hatching to fledging. But for this week it is acting as a gallery for a local artist, Kenneth James Martin. He uses long exposure photograpjhy to capture ritual fire writing and to produce some really dramatic works. Well worth popping in to have a look at.
If you are looking for something else to do at the weekend, why not visit either Rutland Day on Saturday 12 September? This celebration of the status of England's smallest county is being held at Rutland Water and we will be there with our team of face painting volunteers, to add a splash of colour to the proceedings. Look out for the blue and white RSPB marquee.
Alternatively, maybe you'd like to visit the autumn fair at Barnwell Country Park in Northamptonshire on Sunday 13 September. This is a great place to see wildlife, including our lovely red kites. Again, myself and the volunteer team will be there (alas, no facepainters this time), so come along and say hello!
We do try to get out to as many local events as we possibly can, but so if you organise a fete or fair within Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, south Lincolnshire or the Peterborough area, do get in touch. Or maybe you fancy having some fun and helping out as a volunteer? Do contact the Top Lodge centre on 01780 444691 or email toplodge@rspb.org.uk