First bee-eater flies the nest

The first bee-eater chick has emerged from its nest in a Cumbrian quarry.

The rare breed is more commonly found in southern Europe, but two pairs were recently spotted at Hanson UK’s Low Gelt sand quarry near Brampton.

More chicks are expected to emerge over the next few weeks, after which the birds are likely to fly away.

That means keen birdwatchers are advised to visit as soon as they can.

At least 4,000 people are so far thought to have visited the area, to catch a glimpse of the birds.