25th Anniversary of the Rutland Bird Fair

I cannot believe it is that long, particularly as I have attended each and every one at some point over the three days of each event. This year's event was bigger and brighter than ever, with over 400 stalls spread over no less than 8 marquees - simply massive - and too big to cover in just 9 hours !!

I met up with birding friends from Home and Away and cherished a few moments with each of them as I steered my way from marquee to marquee - it's so sad that I see so many of them just this once per year. Anyway, with camera in hand, these were the displays that most caught my eye.........

Tropical Birding's stand was particularly welcoming - www.tropicalbirding.com 

And this one from D.Smith Glasscraft was particularly pleasing on the eye

The Art Tent was crammed full of gems

But this craftsmenship from Nicola Threakston was simply out of this world. GHer ceramic sculptures were sensational - www.nicolatheakstonceramics.co.uk

John Gale's Artwork was simply sumptuous...

And LGRE at a Ringing Session - that's a first if I ever saw one

And chatting to my good friend Alan Davies at the Leica stand was this multi colour-ringed Little Egret. 

Rumours abounded that I was DJ'ing the gig but, after 9 long hours trudging the mud-spattered paths, I had to rush back to see these two beauties

Carmel and my grand-daughter Jade - a date I just could not miss