A WILDLIFE group is asking people to watch birds instead of the telly this Christmas to help with a survey of our feathered friends.

Burnley Wildlife Partnership want residents to put some food out in the garden and make a note of the species which visit.

The seventh annual garden bird survey runs from Tuesday December 23 to Monday January 5.

You don't need to be an expert to take part - you just need a little time to fill in a form.

"If you regularly put food out for the birds, they will become accustomed to your garden or back yard as a feeding station," said Kim Coverdale of the partnership.

"You can then record what sort of birds visit your garden. Last year we had lots of new young bird watchers taking part in the survey which has provided lots of information about which birds stay in Burnley for Christmas."

Forms are at libraries and the natural history centre, Towneley. Or ring Kim on 425011 extension 2368.

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