LOVE was in the air on Sunday as a Suffolk man made a trip to Birdworld incredibly special for his lady by popping the question in front of an audience of feathered lovebirds and well-wishers.

Racing journalist Graham Clark, 31, devised the plan to propose to his girlfriend, Lynsey Pike, also 31, through a romantic gesture while sitting on the love bench by the park’s ‘Wings of Love’ exhibit.

This was chosen especially by Graham as this particular aviary houses black-cheeked lovebirds, which are considered to be one of the rarest parrots in Africa.

Leaving the whole day as a surprise, Lynsey was left speechless when Graham got down on bended knee to ask for her hand in marriage.

Lynsey was delighted to accept Graham’s proposal and the couple were greeted with applause and cheers from the surrounding visitors.

Birdworld’s team worked with Graham to help create a unique experience the couple would never forget including a special behind-the-scenes meeting with George the Humboldt penguin and receiving a complimentary lovebird adoption to officially mark the occasion for the couple.

Graham said: “Lynsey is a big lover of animals, particularly birds and when I was looking for ideas to inspire the proposal, this seemed perfect.

“We have already been to Birdworld a few times as a couple and Lynsey has even taken part in a keeper for a day experience, so she didn’t expect a thing.

“Luckily, she said yes! I wanted to propose in a way that was completely different and would make for a brilliant memory. With the help of the Birdworld team, I think I definitely achieved that,”

Mark Anderson, general park manager at Birdworld, said: “We’re delighted Graham chose to propose to Lynsey at Birdworld.

“We were only too happy to lend a helping hand in making sure all the arrangements came together on the day and made it an unforgettable experience for them both.

“We wish Graham and Lynsey the very best for their future together.”