A RARE caller from a warmer climate is the star turn at Pennington Flash.

The unusual feathered visitor - a Whiskered Tern - has brought 1,500 bird watchers flocking to the Leigh country park from all corners of Britain.

They are all hoping to catch a glimpse of the white, red and black bird which has never been spotted before in the Greater Manchester area.

A regular birdwatcher first noticed the bird and informed rangers who notified the National Birdline which alerted twitchers who stampeded to the Flash.

Nine years ago the Flash scored a European first with a visit from the Black Faced Bunting which is rarely seen outside China.

Wigan Countryside Services manager Graham Workman says the Whiskered Tern is causing a big stir because of its handsome features and is camera friendly nature.

He said: "It is certainly one of the birdwatching highlights in the country at the moment and we have had people here from London and Northern Scotland to see it.

"All have left very pleased as the Tern is very accommodating and giving exceptional views both in flight and perched very close to the hide.

"It has given everyone a buzz."