Hyndburn Police would like to commend the quick thinking of a PCSO, who recently came across a feathered visitor during a routine patrol in Oswaldtwistle.

On Friday 1st September, PCSO Ahmed Rauf was patrolling the vicinity of Fairfield Avenue when he noticed a gathering of concerned residents. Suspicious of the situation, and on further inspection, it was revealed that a large bird had perched itself atop a vehicle in the area.

Having engaged with the owner of the vehicle, who explained that they were unable to proceed with their plans due to the unexpected guest on their car the PCSO, who had recently completed a rural wildlife course, was able to identify the bird as a large Gyrfalcon and recognise that it was captive.

In accordance with training, the owner of the vehicle was advised not to approach the Falcon and a towel was requested and the bird retrieved. Diligent enquiries were made to trace the owner of the bird, and with invaluable assistance from the public, it was revealed that the owner had reported the bird missing on a local social media group. The Falcon’s owner was swiftly notified, and they promptly arrived at the scene where they expressed thanks to the PCSO.

PCSO Ahmed Rauf from the Hyndburn Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “I would like to thank the members of the public whose cooperation and assistance helped reunite the Falcon with its owner. It’s not every day you come across a bird of prey, but I am glad we were able to retrieve the bird safely.”