AN “ALARMING” rise in the population of pigeons and seagulls in a North-East town is linked to an increase in food outlets and outdoor eating, experts have said.

Environmental health experts in Middlesbrough warned that an unchecked growth in the population of the wild birds is due to a huge increase in discarded food left on the streets of the town.

The problem, which could cause an increased risk of disease and unhealthy birds, is being tackled by the town’s council who are cracking down on the feeding of wild birds in the town.

A warning was issued earlier this month that anyone caught littering or feeding the birds could face a fixed penalty notice or court fine.

Other actions taken to combat the issue include food businesses displaying posters warning people not to feed birds, verbal advice being offered to those feeding pigeons and street wardens reporting problems to the Environmental Protection department.

The town’s talking CCTV cameras have also been activated 51 times in response to the issue.

Councillor Julia Rostron, Middlesbrough Council's Executive Member for Community Protection, said: "I'm grateful for the public's support in protecting the town centre and the birds themselves.

"Discarded food - whether on purpose or by accident - has resulted in an alarming rise in the pigeon and seagull populations which must be checked.

"I would urge members of the public and town centre businesses to continue do their bit by disposing of unwanted food responsibly and not feeding them."