RESIDENTS and staff at a Bingley care home had an amazing experience as birds of prey swooped around their activities room.

SMJ falconry from Oxenhope took the majestic birds to Bingley Wingfield Nursing Home last Friday.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Joan was delighted to see this bird of prey up close Joan was delighted to see this bird of prey up close (Image: Newsquest)

The event was organised by activities manager, Sue Sroka, who ensures fun and different activities booked for the elderly residents in the care home.

She said: “We had an amazing time.

“About fifteen of the residents took part and they really enjoyed watching the birds and having them sit on their arms.

“People think once they come to a home, they’re going to be sat in a corner but we really try to keep them stimulated and active.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Annie with a bird of prey on her hand Annie with a bird of prey on her hand (Image: Newsquest)

Dusty the African spotted eagle owl, Geoff the peregrine falcon, Ton Toe the American Kestrel and Bobby the tropical screech owl visited the residents.

The residents enjoyed the show and experience so much that a trip has been planned for next spring, where residents will be able to go to the falconry in Oxenhope and see more than 60 different birds of prey.

Residents, Roger and James both reminisced about their youth when they used to go birdwatching.

Staff also got involved with the birds of prey as the birds eagerly flew onto their arms.

Sue raises money for the activities through fundraisers and recently ran the London Marathon to get donations for the fund.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Resident Agnus with a bird of prey Resident Agnus with a bird of prey (Image: Newsquest)

“I broke my foot whilst I was running, but I made myself get to the end because I wanted to get the money for the residents," she said.

“They really enjoy the activities and we enjoy getting people in.”

So far the residents have seen Alpacas, a petting zoo with lizards came in and other activities will be booked.

Sue said: “We have a Christmas Fair coming up on December 3 and the residents are all excited.

“It’s nice for them to do something with their families and it’s open for everyone from the area to come along.

“Residents will be holding stalls and they are making wreaths to sell on the day.”

Sue hopes to get the residents out to the seaside in the summer next year and will be running a marathon again in April next year to continue raising funds.

“We want our residents to have the best time and life doesn’t just stop when you come to a care home," she said.

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