Crown court trial date set for Hartlepool 'bird man' accused of breaching order
A trial has been set for a pensioner known as the Bird Man of Hartlepool after he was charged with breaching a court order not to feed wildlife anymore.
Brian Wilkins appeared before Teesside Magistrates’ Court earlier in May charged with one count of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order he was issued with last year.
He is accused of breaching the order by putting food down for wildlife in Green Street, Hartlepool, on February 11 this year.
Wilkins, 78, of Sheriff Street, elected for a trial by jury. On Monday, Teesside Crown Court set a two-day hearing for August 9 next year.
The Criminal Behaviour Order was made by magistrates on April 1 last year.
It is in place for two years and prevents Wilkins from leaving food in any public space or accessible places in Hartlepool due to concerns around it attracting vermin.
If he is found guilty of breaching the order, it carries the risk of prison.
Wilkins was granted unconditional bail.