HOLLYWOOD STAR Saoirse Ronan cut the ribbon on a new falconry centre near her home on Sunday at Rathwood, Tullow.

The globetrotting 15-year-old was back home to open the Woodlands Falconry and Bird of Prey Centre which is the brainchild of local preservationist Tommy Byrne.

Saoirse is back home in Ardattin, where she is being home schooled, and is looking forward to spending Christmas at home with her parents.

The falconry centre has come about because of Tommy Byrne, a preservationist and fanatic, who has kept all sorts of birds from an early age. People can drop in to see beautiful birds of prey up close, including golden eagles, red kites, hawks and owls.

Visitors will be able to see the birds perform in a flying display, get the chance to handle them, or walk through the woodland accompanied by a hawk.

Saoirse said she was more than happy to help attract interest to the new centre.

'It's just great to get to help Tommy out because I've known him for many years and this is something he has a passion for,' she said.

Before she has time to let her feet settle the young star is now embarking on a worldwide tour to promote her new film 'The Lovely Bones', in which she plays Susie Salmon, a rape and murder victim who observes her family and her killer from the afterlife.

The film, which opens in Ireland on January 29, was directed by Lord of Rings creator Peter Jackson, and also stars Susan Sarandon, Rachel Weisz and Mark Wahlberg.

'It was great to work with Pete, he's a great guy. He's amazing at what he does.' said the young actress.

- Lynda CONNOLLY