BIRDS of prey will be a highlight of the Orsett Show this year with two displays from the Imperial Bird of Prey Academy.

A host of birds will be performing flying as well as static displays in the 108th Orsett Show, which takes place on September 6, just off the A13.

Making an appearance will be Chaos the tiny American burrowing owl, Zephyr the female bald eagle who is a mascot for the Army Air Corps, Horus the high flying lannerette and Grace the hovering kestrel – there may even be an appearance from Gonzo the hooded eagle.

The Barleylands-based academy was founded in 2011 by Nigel King, who has had 35 years’ experience of working with birds of prey all over the word, much of it in South Africa, as well as working as a bird trainer and show presenter at London Zoo.

He will be accompanied by team member Lisa Falco, who has trained birds for television and film, with the pair providing humorous flying demonstrations and answering any questions.

The pair are regulars on the falconry circuit across the country and have flown at many high profile events including the Annual International Falconry and Raptor Fair and the Falconry Weekend.

As well as the bird of prey show, the event will also feature a traditional baking show, fly fishing, Roger Arnay and the Circus Company, helicopter rides from Heli-Charter, veterinary advice, Surrey Docks City Farm, a fun dog show, Chris Meacham and his ferrets, woodturning demonstrations, classic cars and steam engines.

For full information and to book tickets, visit www.orsettshow.co.uk