Escape from the valley

Managed to escape from the valley on Friday, thanks to my father, John foulds & Len.
Our destination was Gigrin farm to see the Black kite, But as it hadn't been seen for 2 days we decided to go through mid Wales to Aberystwyth.
First stop was at Ludlow for the decreasing flock of Hawfinch, which were not seen, but Dipper on the river was a year tick.
From there we went on through the Elan Valley which was very scenic, But very scarce of birds with only a possible Goshawk flying over.
A stop for Crossbills proved fruitless and the only point of cheer was our first sighting of a Red Kite.
Onto Aberystwyth where a quick park and lunch saw us finding two Common Gulls at rest with the Gulls.
After searching in vain for the Purple Sandpipers it was a bit of a relief when Len found a small flock of Turnstone in the dark under the pier.
What Len was doing under the pier in the dark, well you'll just have to ask him!
He then really came up trumps by finding the reported Black Redstart on the College building.
The bird showed well for about 5 minutes, enough for all of us to get good photos, showing blue paint on its feet and the side of it's body.
From there we headed to Bwlch Nant yr Arian, to where I had never been before.
All I can say is, if you haven't been here for feeding, it's a must.
Over 80 Red Kite flying around and above you, and then coming in to pick up carrion on the wing.
Truly one of the best natural sights Britain has to offer and a fine way to finish off the day.
Must say thanks to John, Len & Dad for letting me gatecrash their Friday outing!