THE erection of a sign warning people not to feed the birds has ruffled feathers in the community after residents accused Bolton Council of wasting taxpayers’ money.

According to a Westhoughton resident, who does not wish to be named, two council workers came to the rear of his property in Church Street and put up the sign, which threatens prosecution if people attempt to feed the birds.

The perplexed resident claimed there was no problem with birds in the area and was confused as to why the sign was needed.

He said: “I watched for around 25 minutes while these guys decided where to put the sign, as at first I thought they may be scrap collectors.

“After they left I was intrigued to see what the sign said, thinking there’d been a serious problem in the area, such as fly tipping, which there hasn’t.

“I couldn’t think what it could be so looked at the sign and was flabbergasted to see it said ‘Do Not Feed The Birds’ with a warning from Bolton Council that it was an offence to do so and could lead to prosecution.

“We have no problem with birds in this area and it’s not like we live near the town hall where they’ve taken measures to control the pigeons from fouling and harming the buildings.”

He questioned why these signs were being put up while the council “continues to cut vital services to the town and raise council tax” but conceded it was only a “small occurrence”.

He added: “The employees were only doing their job, but I’d like to know which bird-brained bureaucrat was behind this flight of fancy and how far up the pecking order were they?

“I wonder how many other residents have received this treatment and would like a justifiable explanation from the Town Hall for this use of taxpayers’ money.”

A council spokesman said they had several complaints from people in Westhoughton about problems caused by birds being fed.

They said: “One of the complaints came from a local estate agency whose tenant contacted them after spotting rats in the back street due to neighbours continuously putting out bread and food for birds.

“Unfortunately leaving food out for birds can cause a real health risk and attract a range of vermin. These signs are intended to inform residents of the risks and deter this practice.

“We would much prefer to educate people than fine them but if the problem persists the council will consider taking further action.

“We hope the public will continue to support the council and help keep our neighbourhoods clean, and in this case pest free.”