A nest of baby chicks who were just days old survived a nearly 300 mile journey across the country in the back of a lorry.

The Great Tits took a journey from Leeds, Yorkshire, all the way down to Ringmer after their mother built their home in what she thought would be a safe place nestled in a stack of bricks.

The lorry driver Matt Isted, 29, didn't notice the chicks until they eventually arrived at the Chandlers Building Supplies yard.

Mr Isted's quick thinking to deliver them to neighbouring Ratstede Centre for Animal Welfare helped save their young lives.

He said: “When the bricks came into the yard the nest fell onto the floor.

“Someone said it was empty but when we looked inside there were the chicks. 

“My first instinct was to take them round next door to try and help - we thought they might not survive.

“I am an animal lover myself so I think I will go back round to check up on them every now and then.”

Cassie Tong, wildlife team member, said: “The five little birds were very cold and hungry. It's amazing that they survived.

“What were the chances of them being found and just next door to an animal welfare charity like Raystede?

“The first 48 hours were critical, but all five have made it and they're all eating well.

“They will now be looked after by us until they are ready to fledge, and will be released here in Raystede's 45 acres.

“As Great Tits tend not to migrate, at just a few days old, they've already made the longest journey of their lifetime.”

Nigel Mason, Raystede's chief executive, added: “Last year our alone our wildlife hospital took in 200 birds and small mammals, but I think I can safely say that these little birds have come to us from furthest away.

“We are entirely reliant on donations to help the animals in our care.”

To find out more or to make a donation, please visit www.raystede.org or call 01825 840 747.