Birdwatchers from the Keighley area marked their group’s 40th birthday with A Celebration of Birds.

Blue Peter bird expert Peter Holden gave the talk to the Airedale and Bradford branch of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Group.

As Bradford RSPB Group, it was one of the first such groups in the country.

It now attracts members from Keighley, South Craven and the Worth Valley, and has a yearly outdoor event in Cliffe Castle Park.

There are birding walks across the district, including one at Leeming Reservoir in January next year.

The group holds educational events for children in libraries, and recently visited Silsden schoolchildren. During its anniversary gathering at Shipley Library – venue for its monthly meetings – the group welcomed Mr Holden.

He created the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch and Date With Nature, advised TV show Blue Peter on birds and wildlife, and has worked with Bill Oddie on several TV series.

He used slides and video footage to explain the history of the RSPB and how its role had developed, drawing on his 40 years on the society’s staff.

The RSPB’s regional director Peter Robertson was also present, and he congratulated the group on reaching such a significant landmark in its history.

The celebrations continue this Saturday at Shipley library from 10am to 4pm, with refreshments, craft activities and a visit by the Lord Mayor of Bradford.