PEREGRINE falcons, Manx shearwaters and tawny owls have all been made welcome at the home of Hereford pensioner Beryl Bayliss.

But the 80-year-old gives the same high level of attention to the more common visitors that pass through her door, such as hedgehogs and pigeons.

A former district nurse, Beryl started the Athene Sanctuary for sick and injured wildlife, 15 years ago.

Her commitment is overwhelming because she makes herself available at all times, and has not taken a holiday since the centre opened in 1988.

Thriving

Beryl started the thriving sanctuary at her home in Chartwell Road, Tupsley, shortly before her 65th birthday.

She is well known for her expertise by both the RSPCA and the RSPB and, over the years, has cared for an array of wildlife, including hand-rearing two tawny owls.

"I find the job fascinating, although it can get very busy at times," she said. "Once, I made the mistake of taking in a cockerel which made a lot of noise. But, generally, it is not a noisy job."

Beryl has assistance from people who help to keep the sanctuary clean and feed the wildlife, but she now needs more faces to cover holidays and sickness.

Beryl, who has never married, loves animals and gets the most satisfaction from creatures making a recovery and returning to their natural habitat.

She added: "Even pigeons are quite good patients and respond to proper care. I am always glad to see the creatures return to the wild because I do not like seeing them living in cages."