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Hadleigh Nub News delves into the life of former Hintlesham animal impressionist, ornithologist, and entertainer Percy Edwards.

Percy Edwards was born on June 1 1908 in Ipswich.

Edwards was always interested in animals. At the age of 12, due to his fascination by wildlife he found in his local area, he was able to imitate many of the wildlife. This became known as his party piece.

Ten years later in 1930, at the age of 22, he debuted on the BBC radio series "Vaudeville."

During the war, Edwards worked at Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies in Ipswich. He is described to have entertained his colleagues with his impressions at lunch time.

Soon, Edwards became a household name after he appeared in the radio shows "Ray's a Laugh" with Ted Ray with his animal impressions and "A Life of Bliss" as Psyche the dog.

It is speculated that at the height of his career, he could accurately imitate over 600 birds, as well as other animals.

Alongside his successful radio career, he provided the vocal effects for the alien and facehugger in "Alien (1979)," the voice for The Reindeer in "Santa Claus: The Movie (1985)," sheep and bird sounds on Kate Bush's song "The Dreaming."

In 1993, Edwards was given an MBE for his services to ornithology and entertainment.

Alongside his great entertainment career, Edwards was a fellow of the Zoological Society of London, and a very respected ornithologist.

He passed on June 7 1996, aged 88, in Hintlesham. He is buried in the churchyard of St. Mary's, Polstead.

In 2009, Sir David Attenborough presented a BBC radio panel game, "The Percy Edwards Showdown," dedicated to Edwards' life and career.