Take a tour of wildlife in the North

Nov 6 2007 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

A TRAVEL company is taking the first step towards operating a coach tour which will focus on the North-East’s wildlife.

Gateshead-based Express Travel is working with Darlington company Certys Limited and Tyneside tour guide Mark O’Keefe to develop the trips.

The first bus trip will be held on Thursday November 22 when passengers will be taken to see the red kites which have been released in the Derwent Valley. Ian Robertson, owner of Express Travel, believes that there is scope to develop the idea of eco-tourism in the North-East. He said: “There is a growing awareness of the importance of wildlife to the region and that it could attract visitors. Our idea is to harness that interest and give everyone the chance to see and enjoy the fantastic wildlife that we have.”

Mark O’Keefe will be the guide on the day, which will start with pick-ups at Newcastle Central Station at noon and MetroCentre coach park at 12.30pm. Passengers will then be taken to Barlow Fell, near Gateshead, to see the birds and be given the chance to take a walk across the fell. Those who do not wish to do the walk can stay on the coach and be driven around the area to observe the red kites.

Mr O’Keefe said: “We are very excited about this idea. The red kites were a good species to begin with but in time we hope to develop the concept further.

“We could, for instance, take passengers to see the seabirds of the North-East coast or up into the North Pennines to see the wading birds and birds of prey.”

John Dean, a director of Certys Limited, said: “I am convinced that wildlife-based tourism can take off in the North-East. With the huge popularity of BBC’s Springwatch and the new Nature of Britain series, it is clear that there is an appetite.”

The cost of the trip will be £7.50 and tickets can be booked from Express Travel on (0191) 478-4767 or email Expresstravel@blueyonder.co.uk