The owners of the Willows Birds of Prey centre are counting down the days until they can welcome back the public.

The centre in Main Road, Knockholt, near Sevenoaks, has been closed during lockdown, but is re-opening on Monday, April 12.

The business has been run by the Robertson family since 2016, dad Nick, son Karl, and daughters Jodie and Emma.

It's home to 58 birds of prey, including hawks, owls, eagles and vultures.

But surprisingly the centre is also home to a large number of animals including pigs, alpacas, sheep, a falabella minature horse, goats, guinea pigs, chickens, pygmy goats and raccoon dogs.

So many in fact, the centre has been told it needs to reclassify itself as a zoo, which it is currently in the process of doing.

Karl Robertson said: "It's a technicality really, but we've put in for a zoo licence."

The centre also offers visitors an extensive nature trail, including natural ponds, with the chance to see ducks, golden pheasants, ferrets and to learn about other animals through information boards. Entry to the nature trail is through the Coolings Lifestyle garden centre.

Willows will open from 9am to 5pm every day, except Sunday, when it is open from 10am to 4pm.

There are four demonstrations each day, at 11am 12noon, 1.30pm and 3pm, when there is either a birds of prey flight or some other activity such as ferret racing.

Entry is £6.99 for an adult, £4.99 for children, with under-5s free. Because of social distancing, it may be necessary to book.

Call the centre on 01959 580677

Or visit www.willowsbirdofpreycentre.co.uk

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