Falcon chicks stolen from castle

The birds are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act

Two peregrine falcon chicks and an egg have been stolen from their nest at Beeston Castle.

Police and English Heritage believe the birds were taken from the top of 300ft high cliffs in the grounds in Tarporley, Cheshire, last month.

Officers said a group of men was seen in the area carrying rucksacks in the evening of Tuesday 20 May, when the popular attraction was closed.

English Heritage said the theft was "extremely distressing".

A statement said: "English Heritage is committed to ensuring that Beeston Castle exists as a welcoming and safe environment for all kinds of wildlife, and it is extremely distressing that anyone would disturb these endangered birds."

It is thought the chicks and egg were stolen when the attraction was closed

The group said it would be working with local wildlife groups to establish a peregrine watch at the site to ensure that next year's chicks are not disturbed.

One of the men seen at the grounds claimed to have been tagging the protected birds.

He is described as about 5ft 4in and stocky with a shaven head and a Liverpool accent.

The men then drove off in a blue Renault Clio Sport.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police.

It is illegal to intentionally kill or harm all UK birds of prey, including peregrines, golden eagles, hen harriers and red kites, as is destroying their eggs and nests.

Peregrines also have additional protection, meaning it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb them when nesting.