Attempts by bee-eaters to nest at a quarry near the north Norfolk coast have failed.

But hopes remain the brightly-coloured birds will stay at the site in Triminngham, near Cromer, and try again to nest and breed. 

The RSPB mentioned stoats as a possible cause behind the unsuccessful attempt. 

They said: “Sad news from bee-eater HQ, it looks like the nesting attempt has failed, not sure why but stoats were seen close by recently. 

“Good news - they haven't left and are courtship feeding again, so another attempt looks likely, just about enough time.”

Three of the birds including a nesting pair arrived at the quarry in early June - the first time ever the species had attempted to use a nesting spot in the UK twice in successive years. 

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Bee-eaters only breed very rarely in the UK - this year marks the seventh breeding attempt in England in the past 20 years. 

The birds normally breed in southern and central Europe, Africa and western Europe. 

Rising temperatures and climate change are thought to be behind their more regular appearance in Britain in recent years.

A viewing point has been set up near the quarry which - just like last year - has been drawing bird watchers from across the country.

However, unlike last year, the RSPB does not plan to set up a live feed to broadcast the goings-on at the site. 

Mark Thomas, from the RSPB, said: “Bee-eaters are like no other bird you’re likely to see in the UK. Not only are they indescribably beautiful, but they put on a great show as they leap from a favourite perch to catch flying insects mid-air.”

The viewing point is off Gimingham Road, Trimingham. Entry costs £5 per person (cash only) to cover site monitoring and protection.