IMPRESSIVE birds of prey flew in to a Basingstoke care home.

Residents at Basingfield Court, in Huish Lane, Old Basing, admired the birds, brought along by charity Wings of Freedom, which included snowy and barn owls, an eagle and Harris hawk.

Staff and residents at the Sanctuary Care run home were able to hold the birds, while specialist Colin Sutherland spoke about the different species.

Resident Les Waldon said: “I had a wonderful time. The birds were extraordinary.”

Beryl Streether, who also lives at Basingfield, added: “The birds were lovely and the information shared was very interesting. I had no idea how amazing birds could be.”

Under Colin’s supervision, the birds spread their wings for residents and staff.

Wings of Freedom was set up 25 years ago by Colin, and the charity rehabilitates birds which have been shot, poisoned or injured, and takes them into schools and care homes.

Resident Dudley Clark said: “It was marvellous to see the owls up-close. They were so well behaved and not remotely fazed by us.”