Feeding time

Today's the day ........................... to watch the kites fly

It happens as regular as clockwork - 2.00pm in the winter - and 3.00 pm in the summer.

If you go at that time - to Twynllanan near Llanddeusant, in the Brecon Beacons National Park - you can watch the kites appearing in the sky from all directions as if by magic. They seem to recognise the farmer with his buckets of juicy offal as he walks across the field in front of the hides. Then, as he chucks handfuls of it into the air, they swoop and dive to catch it with such acrobatic grace and skill, it leaves you speechless.

The other unexpected bonus that you get from being in such close proximity to these beautiful birds is that you see how colourful they are. Their feathers positively glow with chocolate brown, russet, beige and deep red hues. And, of course, that characteristic high-pitched cry is so distinctive.

If you're anywhere near, it's a matinee performance not to be missed .................