The kestrel is real.

A quick trip to The Lowry outlet on Salford Quays turned up this little fella!

There was a stall inside for an animal sanctuary based in Lancashire (can't remember the name.)

The trainee handler accidentally let go of his tether and he almost escaped.

Luckily the kestrel didn't get too far and the handler got him back. Cue applause from the watching crowd.

Of all the times to only have my iPhone with me and not another camera....