Great Weather - For Ducks!

As the rain poured down today, NI Environment Minister, Sammy Wilson, was visiting one local group of NI residents who are more than happy with the January downpours.

He was 'taking a Gander' at Castle Espie Wetland Centre where he officially opened the new Brent Geese bird hide and celebrated World Wetlands Day.

He said that Castle Espie on Strangford Lough, is now the winter residence to the majority of the world's population of these internationally important birds.

During the visit Mr Wilson viewed the progress of the major redevelopment and restoration work at the site.

The project, due for completion in March 2010, is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland.

The ambitious plans will create and restore habitats and overhaul the buildings and spaces which will help the public's understanding of wetland biodiversity.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) Natural Heritage Grants Programme has contributed £250,000 to aid the creation and management of wetlands and salt marsh.

NIEA funding has also been used to extend the bird hide which allows close viewing of Brent Geese at Castle Espie.

(BMcC/JM)