A MAN who can "talk" to birds will be appearing at a Teesdale garden which will open to the public at the weekend.

Ravensford Farm, in Hamsterley, near Bishop Auckland, will open its gates in aid of St Cuthberts Hospice, in Durham, tomorrow from 2.30pm to 5pm.

The Bird Man of Bishop Auckland will be one of the attractions at the open day.

The performer can mimic the noises made by wild birds, often prompting them to call back to him.

There will be refreshments available in the farmhouse and plants for sale.

Jonathan and Caroline Peacock moved into the farm 22 years ago and - as well as renovating the run-down house - they transformed their two-and-a- half acre field into a stunning garden.

"There was nothing here when we first arrived but we've worked hard since then," said Mrs Peacock.

Entry is free but visitors are encouraged to make a donation to St Cuthberts Hospice. For details call 01388-488305.