Brian Wilkins, 78, is set to face trial at Teesside Crown Court on September 15, after pleading not guilty to charges of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order. Hartlepool Council prosecuted Wilkins after receiving numerous complaints from residents and businesses that his daily habit of feeding breadcrumbs to pigeons and seagulls was attracting rats. Wilkins, who reportedly buys 30 loaves of bread daily to feed various local wildlife, has continued his practice despite repeated warnings from the council.
In 2023, Wilkins was issued with a Community Protection Notice, followed by the Criminal Behaviour Order in April 2025. He admitted to continuing to feed the birds after these orders were put in place. At Teesside Magistrates' Court, Wilkins denied twice breaching the order without reasonable excuse by dropping breadcrumbs. He opted for a jury trial, stating his belief that it is against English law to allow birds and animals to suffer and that he is simply trying to prevent them from starving. He also stated that controlling the rat population is the council's responsibility.
If convicted, Wilkins faces a potential prison sentence. In addition to the Criminal Behaviour Order, he was previously fined £250, ordered to pay £1,826.73 in costs, and a £100 surcharge. Hartlepool Borough Council's pest control services reported that Wilkins' actions have hindered their efforts to control rat populations in areas including those near a primary school. The council stated that the issue has had a "detrimental effect on the quality of life of residents" and that legal action was a last resort due to his failure to cooperate. A spokesperson for the council emphasized their duty to safeguard public health and noted numerous recurring complaints about rats linked to Wilkins' continued feeding of the birds.
Wilkins, who has received support from the local community, maintains he is trying to prevent creatures from starving and believes the charges are unfounded. He is determined to contest the council's rulings.