An RAF Chinook helicopter performed dramatic manoeuvres in blustery conditions to place a new bird watching hide onto its permanent site at Kent Wildlife Trust’s Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve.

The recycled steel shipping container, weighing almost four tons, was airlifted onto its base by 27 Squadron from RAF Odiham, with the support of ground crew from RAF Brize Norton.

Kent Wildlife Trust’s biodiversity warden for Sandwich and Pegwell Bay, Jason Mitchell, said: “The RAF saw the exercise as a valuable training opportunity and generously offered its services to the trust.

“The team made what appeared to be a difficult operation look fairly routine. Now we have a first class bird watching facility in a stunning coastal location for both residents and visitors to enjoy year round.”

Up to 28 bird watchers can fit into the hide and it is has been designed to be used by visitors with disabilities.

The addition of the bird hide is just one element of The GrantScape Biodiversity Enhancement Project.

Other improvements at Sandwich and Pegwell Bay include the restoration of five hectares of internationally important inter-tidal mudflat habitat and the provision of one mile of “access for all” footpath at the country park.

The entrance is on the Sandwich to Ramsgate road and there is a parking area. For more details see www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk