Peacocks - symbols of the exotic East or an ordinary estate in Maryport.

Ewanrigg residents are becoming used to the sight of two peahens and a peacock which are freely roaming the area and making themselves completely at home.

The birds, which are causing great delight, have come to the Arches area of the estate, brought by Michael Mitchell, who ran the Ellen Bank hotel.

The elegant peacocks were at home in the equally elegant grounds of the hotel but when Mr Mitchell came down the hill they came with him.

"They have a compound they come home to at night," said Mr Mitchell whose family owns Mitchell's Store at the Arches, "but during the day they just wander around the estate."

So far the peacocks are enchanting residents and adding a bit of colour to the estate.