(Image: Supplied)
A County Durham castle will host a special afternoon celebrating the remarkable bond between an author and her barn owl, featuring a book launch, talk and live flying display for visitors.
The event will take place at Lumley Castle in Chester-le-Street on Sunday, September 27, from 2pm to 3.30pm as part of the venue’s Talks & Teas series.
It will feature Tees Valley author Tracey Iceton and Sparky, the barn owl who inspired her latest book, Sparky – My Barn Owl Story.
Tracey Iceton said: "I'm delighted to have the chance to bring Sparky along to Lumley Castle as part of their Talks and Teas series.
Sparky by Tracey Iceton
(Image: Supplied)
"I'm looking forward to the chance to introduce people to Sparky, share her story with them and let them get up close with a bird rarely seen in the wild.
"Lumley is well known as one of the most haunted castles in England so it's a particularly appropriate venue for a barn owl event as they are also known as ghost owls, thanks to their white plumage, nocturnal habits and silent, spooky flight.
"Hopefully none of the Castle ghosts join us for the event."
Attendees will enjoy a cream tea alongside an author reading, book signing, and Q&A session before a talk about barn owls.
The event will conclude with a live flying display featuring Sparky in the castle grounds.
Sparky is a nine-year-old, captive-bred barn owl who was brought to an animal centre in March 2022.
Ms Iceton, who was volunteering at the centre and already had experience with birds of prey, began flying Sparky to improve her quality of life.
She later adopted the owl, and they have been together ever since.
Jane Napper, sales & revenue manager at Lumley Castle, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Sparky the Owl to Lumley Castle as part of our Talk & Teas programme.
"This particular event will offer a wonderful opportunity for guests to get closer to nature, learn more about these extraordinary birds and enjoy a relaxing cream tea, in the unique surroundings of the castle.
"We look forward to welcoming visitors for what promises to be a truly memorable experience."
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The Talk & Teas series is designed to offer engaging, immersive experiences that combine education, entertainment and exceptional hospitality, reflecting Lumley Castle's commitment to creating unique events for both local residents and visitors from further afield.
Guests will be able to meet Sparky in person and see her in flight, making for an afternoon that combines wildlife, storytelling and the atmospheric backdrop of one of the North East’s most iconic venues.
Advanced booking required. Visit lumley.wearegifted.co.uk