THE APPARENTLY tranquil pastime of bird-feeding is causing a 'turf war' at a housing complex.

Ann Walker was given her bird feeding station on Mother's Day this year by her son Gary.

It was installed in the shared grass and trees area outside her flat by her grandson, Bobby-Joe.

But the new feature angered two neighbours who complained that it was spoiling their view and causing hygiene problems.

As a result Mrs Walker, after being given a deadline by Connect Housing Association, was forced to move her feeders and bird bath.

They now stand several yards further away inside a wildlife area, where the 77-year-old says she needs binoculars to watch the birds.

Mrs Walker, a resident at Newall Close, Otley, said: "This feeding station was a Mother's Day gift but my life's been made a misery ever since, all because of two residents who didn't like it.

"I've fed birds wherever I've lived. It's so sad to think that because two people object you get all this palaver."

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Neighbourhood Services Manager for Connect, Ceri Lewis, said: "This is a really disappointing situation.

"We were made aware of neighbour disputes happening over the feeding of birds on communal grounds.

"We held a meeting on April 17 to help residents find a fair solution that allowed those who wanted to feed the birds to do so without attracting large birds, causing damage to trees, or soiling washing/drying that was hanging out."

She said key points were agreed, resulting in the Good Neighbour Agreement.

"We have spent a lot of time helping residents find a common agreement about this and hoped they would stick to the agreement, so the communal land can continue to be used and enjoyed by everyone," she said.