A group documenting birds of prey which nest in the heights of a north Norfolk church’s tower have said the project has brought the town’s entire community together.
The Cromer Peregrine Project has been observing peregrine falcons ever since their arrival at Cromer church in 2019.
This year, Cromer was one of only three successful peregrine falcon nesting sites in Norfolk, with more than 13,000 people visiting its watchpoint outside Cromer Museum to see the two female chicks.
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"None of this would be possible without the church,” Eddie Anderson, Cromer Peregrine Project’s chairman, said.
“The fantastic relationship between the church and the Cromer Peregrine Project means that these rare birds are kept safe during the important breeding season.”
The project is said to have brought a real sense of community spirit and togetherness to the town.
Most of the Cromer Peregrine Project’s volunteers come from the North East Norfolk Bird Club.
A live webcam, which can be viewed from inside the church as well as on YouTube, has attracted an audience of thousands of viewers, and is sponsored by Cromer’s Cliftonville Hotel.
The project’s telescopes and binoculars which give visitors a rare, close-up view of the birds of prey have been supplied by manufacturer Viking Optical, and stored at Cromer Museum - and Church Street shop Upstairs Downstairs has been helping to fund the project by stocking and selling its merchandise.
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Mike Harmer, coordinator of the peregrine watchpoint, said: "It is about more than just the birds.
“Yes, the work the Cromer Peregrine Project is doing is incredibly important for the protection and conservation of peregrine falcons, but the ability wildlife has to impact not only individuals but a whole community, like Cromer, is truly breathtaking."
The project has welcomed thousands of visitors, including community groups – like Cromer-based charity for people with learning disabilities, About With Friends – to view the birds at the watchpoint.
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