But Knutsford Sessions House is currently under threat from a rather more local source.

Pigeons, or rather their droppings, have become such a problem at the building that councillors and residents are concerned for the safety of the historical court house.

"It is well-known that where pigeon poo and water mix together it becomes more acidic," said Fred Owen, a local geologist.

"At the bottom of the pillars it just doesn't drain away and can erode the sandstone."

Mr Owen, of Bexton Road, is currently researching for a series of geology trails that use the Sessions House as their starting point, and is concerned how people will view the first great sight of Knutsford.

"People on the trail will have to put their noses up against the stone pillars with a magnifying glass," he said.

"They would certainly have to walk in the poo to do this. The landing is covered in it."

Mr Owen, 67, will lead the trail in June after Manchester University designated Knutsford as a town of great geological interest and worthy of a tourist 'trail'.

And in May Knutsford represents the whole of the North West in the Britain in Bloom competition - and the Sessions House and the surrounding area are likely to be a key to the town's success.

"It is important for the town to present itself at its very best," said deputy mayor Clr George Walton.

"The droppings are not only an eyesore but pose a potential hazard to health," he said.

The Sessions House is under the landlordship of Lord Irving, and as such is administered by the Court Service.

Yesterday (Tuesday) Audrey Tilley, Knutsford Crown Court clerk, said that Chester Crown Court had been made aware of the situation and were making plans to deal with the unsightly droppings in the coming financial year.

"I am sure it will be sorted before summer," said Mrs Tilley.

"Our prime concern is getting it cleared but the long-term problem with pigeons is something under review at present."