POLICE were expecting a few ruffled feathers when they went to arrest an escapee - but the fierce-looking youngster came quietly.

Kes the kestrel had caused quite a flap when he was spotted swooping down on people on the outskirts of Stockton.

Officers sent to take the troublemaker into custody found no sign of him, but shortly afterwards there was a call from a householder in Yarm, to report that he had captured a hawk - in his garden shed.

The kestrel, which was ringed and wearing falconry straps, was extremely tame and quite happily flew to an outstretched arm.

PC Paul Lawrence, one of Cleveland police's wildlife officers, arranged for the bird to be taken to a temporary home until the owner is traced.

He said: "It's a young bird, well-fed and in good condition. It didn't look as if it had been loose all that long.

"It is very tame and used to humans, and has settled down quite happily in its new flight, but we are trying to trace the owner.

"It must belong to someone living in the area and we would like to hear from that person. We can get the details from the rings, but that takes time."

Anyone with any information should contact (01642) 326326.