TWITCHERS descended on a Hampshire supermarket after reports that exotic birds had been seen in the area.

Birdwatchers anxious to catch a glimpse of waxwings converged on the car park at the Asda store in Maynard Road, Totton.

One of the first to see and photograph the birds was Cllr David Harrison, who represents part of Totton on the county and district councils.

He said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to have seen these rare visitors - they’re truly one of the most attractive birds to be seen in Britain.

“I don’t expect them to stay around for long as there aren’t a great many trees with berries on them.

“Normally waxwings only come this far south during a really cold snap so it’s a wonderful surprise and a great way to start the birdwatching year.”

Twitchers also rushed to investigate sightings of waxwings in nearby Beaumont Road and Jennings Road.