A EUROPEAN eagle owl called Chezz and a tawny owl called Becky delighted young visitors to the Chequers Centre in Maidstone.

The two birds were among 13 owls at the shopping centre to help raise money for the Tomar Owl Sanctuary where they are being looked after.

As well as looking after injured owls and other birds, the sanctuary also cares for other rescued animals, such as foxes, badgers, squirrels and hedgehogs.

The sanctuary was opened by Tom and Margaret Tyrrell at Mersham, near Ashford, in 1990. Since then it has accommodated more than 10,000 rescued animals, most of which have been returned to their natural habitats.

It costs about £18,000 a year to run the sanctuary and the money comes purely from sponsorship and private contributions.

The sanctuary, a registered charity, is also trying to raise money to buy a new bird ambulance. It has already raised £8,000 of the £12,000 needed and is looking for someone to provide sponsorship for the last £4,000. Any business or individual that can help should contact Mr Tyrrell on 01233 503437.