WILDLIFE enthusiasts from across Worcestershire took part in what the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds hope was a record bird-watching survey.

Paul Ryder, landlord of the Robin Hood Inn, in Rashwood, near Droitwich, championed the 26th annual Big Garden Birdwatch, providing his customers with information sheets to encourage them to take part.

"We had quite a few people take part. Some people took the information sheets home with them so I guess they'll watch birds in their own gardens," he said.

Last year 420,000 people took part, recording 8.6 million birds. The survey provides information for the RSPB that can be used to track bird populations throughout the UK.

An online survey form is available on the RSPB website www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch