FARMERS in the Warrington area have been taking part in National Nest Box Week.

The event, taking place this week, aims to encourage organisations and individuals to provide homes for birds and help to stop the decline in population that is being caused by the loss of natural nesting sites.

Certain birds thrive around farmland because of the seed supply, but the intensive farming methods of the last century have led to a decrease in bird numbers.

Many farmers across Cheshire are contributing to the effort, with more than 300 tree sparrow nest boxes and 20 barn owl boxes being put up in the region in the last year alone.

Sarah Warrener, of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' rural development service, said: "Any farmer who sees these birds and is happy to put up nest boxes can contact us and have them included as part of their countryside stewardship agreement.

"Farmers who are considering applying to join stewardship, or who have an existing agreement but would like it amended to include nest boxes, should contact their local rural development service office on 01270 754233."