'Bullying' council threaten 97-year-old woman who feeds birds in her back ... trends now

A dispute over a 97-year-old woman feeding birds in her back garden has escalated with the 'bullying' council now threatening a £2,500 fine or even court action to force her and her son out of their privately-owned home.

Retired music teacher Anne Seago enjoys the simple pleasure of watching from her conservatory as sparrows and robins feed off seeds on her bird table.

A complaint from a neighbour that she was attracting pigeons and seagulls prompted the council to issue a 'written warning' last November and threaten a £100 fine if the 'anti-social behaviour' doesn't cease.

Now, amid claims the birds are still being fed, Fylde Council has issued her son Alan, 77, who lives with her, with another written warning. This time he is being threatened with a Community Protection Notice (CPN) and a potential fine of £2,500 for 'non-compliance' if the 'anti-social behaviour' doesn't stop immediately.

And in a further threat the council's environmental health department has warned it could take legal action for a 'Civil Injunction and/or a Premises Closure Order', that if granted by magistrates could ultimately force them out of their house in Staining, near Blackpool, for up to three months.

Mr Seago, a retired car salesman, said the latest threats were causing his mother 'more stress' and there were concerns for her health as a result.

Commenting on the council's approach, he said: 'It's disgusting, it's ridiculous and beyond belief. My mum is just stunned and can't believe this is happening.'

He said the cash to pay such a large fine 'could be found if necessary, but not willingly.'

When two council officers visited the property a week ago

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