WITH reference to the story about the 'Birdman of Golden Square' where high-flier Andrew Ward helps to ease his stress with the ancient sport of falconry. Having now teamed up with Steve Birchall, who runs the Northwich falconry centre, they are to parade these magnificent wild and proud birds in the Golden Square this Christmas. Do they not consider the enormous stress they cause these animals when they are made to endure being put on show?

A wild animal in an environment that is not at all natural, noisy people all around, sounds, smells, etc. Stress, I don't think they have any idea. They will tell you that these birds are used to it, that they don't get stressed. Rubbish! I imagine even being caught every day to bring them to the Golden Square stresses them.

If these wild animals have to be kept in captivity, why then can't they be treated with the dignity and kindness they deserve and not used as showpieces for humans to gape at.

I hope poor Mr Ward and Mr Birchall have a stress-free time this Christmas, more than can be said for the wild animals.

I will not be going to Golden Square while these poor animals are on show and hope many more people who care will stay away. Maybe if people stay away there will not be a need to exhibit these birds and they might be able to lead a quiet captive life.

MAUREEN RIDEWOOD

Callands