Despite being away for six days I'm glad to see that I've missed the worst of the weather. However news filters through that large numbers of Guillemots and Razorbills have returned to the islands, although they will disappear again in the very near future (as the bad weather continues). The 'Auks' are one of the first birds to return to Farne waters and its hard to imagine that little over ten weeks time, many will be sitting on eggs at nest sites on the islands!!
Anyway just to keep you posted, an auction on E-Bay is helping The National Trust raise money to help save Seaton Delavel Hall in the North-east of England. As part of the fund raising campaign, I've offered my services as seen below...
"Enjoy an exclusive 'behind the scenes of the Farne Islands with the National Trust's Head Warden and resident ornithologist, David Steel. These rocky islands off the Northumberland coast are a haven for 100,000 pairs of nesting seabirds like puffin and guillemot and are one of Europe's largest grey seal colonies. Bid for a chance for you and a friend to be met at Seahouses Harbour by David and enjoy a boat trip around the islands before arriving at the largest island, Inner Farne, for a tour of areas not usually open to the public. You'll see inside the 15th century Pele Tower, where the wardens live during the season, and inside the Victorian lighthouse keeper’s cottage, now the wardens’ office. Bring your binoculars for bird-watching and wildlife-spotting too. This tour is weather-dependent and also on the Head Wardens’ availability, but can be arranged from 1st April onwards. Bidding starts at £30 for your opportunity for this wonderful day bid now! Note that travel costs (from your home or place of work to Seahouses Harbour) are not included. No unaccompanied under 18s.
All proceeds will go to the National Trust's Save Seaton Delaval Hall Appeal (see www.nationaltrust.org.uk/saveit)
So there you have it!! Get bidding for a day out with me!!!!!
