South Lakes Wild Animal Park owner denies birds' escape

The sacred ibis is a wading bird which is native to Africa

An animal park owner in Cumbria has appeared in court accused of allowing a "threatening" bird to escape.

David Gill, 53, is alleged to have let a sacred ibis bird escape from South Lakes Wild Animal Park near Dalton-in-Furness on three occasions last year.

South Lakes Wild Animal Park Ltd and Mr Gill have been charged with three offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

At Furness Magistrates' Court on Thursday Mr Gill denied the charges.

A trial date has yet to be set.

David Gill pleaded not guilty to three charges under the Wildlife and Countryside Act