Brian Wilkins, a 78-year-old grandfather affectionately known as the Bird Man of Hartlepool, is facing a crown court trial and a possible prison sentence after being charged with breaching an order that prohibits him from feeding birds in his hometown. Wilkins previously received a £2,000 fine after councillors complained about him scattering bread for pigeons and gulls around Hartlepool, County Durham.
Background of the Case
Town hall officials blamed Wilkins for the town’s vermin problem and brought him before magistrates in April 2025. Wilkins had been known to purchase up to 30 loaves of bread each day to feed the birds. The Criminal Behaviour Order, imposed by magistrates on April 1, 2024, prohibits him from leaving food in any public space or accessible place in Hartlepool due to concerns about attracting vermin. The order is in effect for two years.
Breach of the Order
Wilkins has now been charged with failing to comply with the community order. He is accused of breaching the order by putting food down for birds in Green Street, Hartlepool, on February 11, 2026. The pensioner appeared before Teesside Magistrates’ Court in May, charged with one count of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order. He elected for a trial by jury, and on Monday, June 29, a two-day hearing was set for August 9, 2027.
Previous Penalties
Wilkins was previously fined £250, ordered to pay a £100 surcharge, and court costs of £1,826. If found guilty of breaching the order, he faces the risk of imprisonment. Wilkins, of Hartlepool, was granted unconditional bail.
