LOVE calls from one of nature's most elusive birds will lure nature enthusiasts to a North-East woodland on Friday.

The Forestry Commission stages a guided trek on the trail of the nocturnal nightjar in Hamsterley Forest, the bird's major stronghold in the region.

Experts reckon that up to 40 breeding pairs spend the summer in the 4,000 acre beauty spot, near Bishop Auckland, which is a remarkable turnaround since the 1970s when there were none in the area.

The bird's amazing courtship ritual involves a "churring" love call and energetic aerobatics.

Recreation ranger Mike McDonnell said: "The bird has shaken off the loss of its traditional heathland habitat and is settling nicely into recently cleared forest sites, where there are plenty of insects to eat. We are working hard to ensure its revival continues."

Gordon Simpson, from West Auckland, leads the walk which starts with a glass of wine in the forest tea room. Meet at 8.30pm. Adults pay £2 50p and concessions £1 50p.

* Call (01388) 488312 or visit www.forestry.gov.uk