Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Another attempt to stop the pigeon feeders is underway.
Today's story - PIGEON FEEDERS TARGETED BY NEW CAMPAIGN 8.04.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 10th Jul 2007 West Wiltshire Council is working with Trowbridge Town Council to try to reduce the pigeon population. Part of this involves targeting known bird feeders, who have flouted all previous requests not to put down food.

Illustrated 'don't feed the birds' signs are now being placed around the town centre. Locations include Cradle Bridge, the Innox Road footpath, Town Bridge, alongside the Shires and the River Biss, and Fore Street.

John Carter, the District Council's environmental health manager, explained: "We are following several different options to deal with this problem. Putting out excessive food is littering, so these new signs will help us with any legal route we may take against persistent offenders. We are also carrying out proofing work around the town centre to discourage pigeons from roosting."

Linda Conley, the environment portfolio holder, added: "We need to see this excessive feeding brought to an end. This is a vermin problem and we will do everything we can to improve Trowbridge town centre for everyone who lives and works there."

Pest control officers from the District Council are working hard to deal with infestations of rats around the Biss. Rats are thriving on food left for pigeons.

John Knight, Chairman of the Town Development Committee, added: "This is an excellent example of the two councils working together to tackle this long standing problem. I am sure the combined efforts will lead to a reduction in environmental nuisance, particularly at a time when the town is about to realise substantial investment from developers."