Natural England

Kites over Caburn: Family event on Wednesday 15 August. Noon till 5pm

Try your hand at kite flying in the magical setting of Mount Caburn National Nature Reserve, in Lewes. Natural England is hosting a free picnic and kite flying afternoon on Wednesday 15 August for all the family - with butterfly walks, advice on kite flying, a lunch of locally produced food and a chance for children to win their own kites. Kites will be supplied.

Malcolm Emery, site manager for Mount Caburn National Nature Reserve explained, "Mount Caburn is a very special place. On the top of the hill you have fantastic views of Lewes and the South Downs, and are surrounded by the wildflowers that thrive in chalk grassland. The Caburn is in such easy reach from Lewes, or from Glynde station, we hope that families will join us to explore the Reserve and try out kite Flying.

"If we are very lucky we may see another type of kite that flies over the Caburn - the red kite. This fantastic bird of prey has a wingspan Of almost six feet and its characteristic red-brown colour and forked tail makes it easy to spot. They nearly became extinct in the 1950s but have now been spotted over the Caburn, as birds from reintroduction Projects expand their range into the south east."

The event will run from midday to 5pm on Wednesday 15 August. Walk up to the old Fort, where you'll find a marquee (and toilets). For directions or assistance to get up to the Fort, please contact Malcolm Emery on 01273 407954 or 07971 974401.

For further information contact: The South East Communications Team Office on 01273 407943 or Malcolm Emery on 07971 974401. For further information about Natural England please visit: www.naturalengland.org.uk

Notes to Editors:

1. Natural England works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. We conserve and enhance the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings. We increase opportunities to make the natural environment an enriching part of people's everyday lives, and improve its long term security by contributing to the sustainable management of our natural resources.