Puffin festival promises 'one of best spectacles'

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust hopes the festival will raise awareness of the threats posed to puffins by climate change

The Yorkshire Puffin Festival is returning to the spectacular setting of Flamborough cliffs.

Visitors are being promised a weekend of activities, including puffin watching, wildlife walks and family fun, on 1 and 2 June.

Flamborough is home to almost a third of British puffins and one of the few places where the colourful birds can be seen without having to board a boat.

David Craven, of organiser Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, said visitors would experience "one of the best wildlife-watching spectacles" in the region.

“They’re such characterful birds," he added. "Spotting them is an experience that delights so many people."

Among the highlights of the fifth annual festival will be bird-watching sessions with expert spotters.

Guided walks will include an event at dusk, when it is hoped visitors will spot barn owls.

Boat trips by traditional fishing coble will offer a chance to discover the rugged coastline and view the seabirds from another angle.

Families will be able to take part in storytelling sessions and crafts – including making a mural using plastic litter collected on local beaches.

The trust hopes the festival will raise awareness of the threats posed to puffins by climate change and the need to protect their fishing grounds and habitat.

"These wonderful birds need our help," Mr Craven said.

The festival will be based at North Landing, Flamborough, near Bridlington, and includes free and paid events. Some activities, such as the boat trip, require booking via the festival's web page.

Follow BBC East Yorkshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail]