A FARMER who used to breed pigs until the market declined is planning to set up a viewing centre for more than 100 birds of prey on his land.

Paul Barkes hopes to attract families from all over the North-East to the raptor centre at Thorpe Farm, in Greta Bridge, near Barnard Castle, County Durham.

It will include an outdoor arena in which demonstrations of falconry will be given, and indoor areas in existing buildings in which several rare species can be studied.

The centre will be home to two eagles, as well as vultures, hawks, buzzards, falcons and owls.

A separate section will be set up for small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets.

Mr Barkes said: "I feel this will prove a fine new tourist attraction for all ages, as it can be enjoyed even when the weather is poor.

"There are many first class heritage sites in Teesdale, but there is a need for something new at which visitors can see some action, and this will provide just that."

Mr Barkes already has a farm shop, tearoom, bistro, picnic area and adventure playground on the farm, where he used to keep up to 5,500 pigs at any time and send 180 to market every week.

He hopes the new centre will open this autumn.

He said: "We suffered from a pig virus called blue ear, and then from restricted movements due to foot-and-mouth, as well as a decline in the pig trade.

"We had to find some diversification, and the birds of prey will be the latest part of it."

He has applied to Teesdale District Council for planning consent for the new centre.

Planning officer Andrew Bishop said yesterday: "I still have to study all the details, so it is too early to say what my recommendation will be."

The birds will be provided and looked after by Phil Gibbons and his wife, Tracy, of Kirk Merrington, near Spennymoor, who are well known for giving displays at shows around the region.

Mr Gibbons said: "There is enormous interest in birds of prey, so I'm sure this venture will be a success. Once we get going we mean to lead some nature walks and let people see the birds working in the wider outdoors."