THE peregrine falcons on Winchester Cathedral continue to thrive.

Five chicks hatched earlier this summer and all five have grown and spread their wings.

Keith Betton, of Hampshire Ornithological Society, told the Chronicle: "All five birds left the nest and were busy flying around the Cathedral a month ago. One was a bit behind the others as it was hatched last - which is quite normal. That last chick can sometimes get left out completely, so ours was lucky.

"I have not heard so much about the chicks recently, but I have no reason to believe anything other than complete success. They become more interested in exploring the countryside now, so Winchester is just where they come back to at night."