Hartlepool Pensioner To Face Crown Court Trial Over Wildlife Feeding Allegation..
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Hartlepool ‘Bird Man’ To Stand Trial Before Jury Over Alleged Feeding Ban Breach
29th May 2026
A Hartlepool pensioner has pleaded not guilty to breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order linked to the feeding of wild animals, with the case now set to continue before Teesside Crown Court.
Brian Wilkins, 77, known locally as Hartlepool’s “Bird Man”, appeared before Teesside Magistrates’ Court today charged with breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order imposed in 2025 by Hartlepool Borough Council, following earlier proceedings connected to the feeding of wild animals.
The allegation relates to claims that Mr Wilkins again dropped food for the purpose of feeding animals, despite being subject to a court order prohibiting such behaviour.
During today’s hearing, Wilkins pleaded not guilty to the offence and elected for the matter to be heard by a jury in the Crown Court.
Magistrates agreed to refer the case to Teesside Crown Court due to the seriousness of the alleged offence and the possibility that a custodial sentence could be considered if he is convicted.
Mr Wilkins was in the mean time granted unconditional bail and is due to appear next at Teesside Crown Court on June 29.
The case however has continued to divide public opinion in Hartlepool.
Supporters of Mr Wilkins argue that his actions are rooted in concern for birds and wildlife, with many viewing the prosecution of a pensioner for feeding animals as heavy-handed and disproportionate. Some residents have previously claimed that the feeding is harmless and that wider vermin problems in the town should not be placed solely at Mr Wilkins’ door.
However, others take a very different view, arguing that the repeated leaving of food in public areas has caused a genuine public nuisance. Nearby businesses have previously raised concerns over vermin, with some claiming they've been forced to spend thousands of pounds on pest control as a result of food being left out.
The case has therefore become about more than one man feeding wildlife. For many in Hartlepool, it's raised wider questions about public health, council enforcement powers, nuisance complaints, animal welfare and whether criminal proceedings are a proportionate response for a 77 year old 'eccentric' man.
If convicted of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order, Mr Wilkins could face a fine, a custodial sentence of up to 26 weeks, or both.
