A FALCON engaged in pest control on an Astley landfill site disappeared yesterday after mistaking a microlight for prey!

The three year-old Saker Peregrine named Cleo headed-off in pursuit of the microlight while chasing gulls and crows off the landfill site between Astley Green and Boothstown.

Falconer Darren Leigh is offering a £50 reward for information leading to the return of his prize bird which was last seen heading towards Barton Airport.

He said: "It is unusual for a falcon to behave like this, usually if they see an aircraft they head the other way.

"She is friendly to people and nobody need fear approaching her, but I am concerned about her survival in these freezing conditions."

He is anxious to be reunited with Cleo who has a 4'6" wingspan, stands 18 inches high and has a brown speckled breast and silver-grey back.

Normally the bird could be located through a radio tracking device but the owner said this was not functioning.

Anybody who can help Darren relocate his prize bird should call 01942 889950 and ask for extension 209.