RED LETTER DAY

Oct 24 2008 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

WILDLIFE Minister Huw Irranca-Davies was given a taste of the Derwent Valley’s red kite culture yesterday.

Travelling by Go North East’s red kite liveried bus, he called in on Rowlands Gill Primary School.

The badge of the school, which opened 18 months ago, features a red kite, and the minister was given a mug portraying the bird.

He was entertained by pupils who performed a red kite dance, and headteacher Hannah Martin, staff and youngsters all wore red and enjoyed a red-themed lunch.

Pupils have adopted two kites, Speedy and Scarlet Flame. As the minister left, three kites took their cue and soared overhead.

The RSPB’s Dr Mark Avery said: “These children are the first generation in 150 years in the North East to grow up with red kites as part of their lives.”