WARNING signs have been put up to ensure visitors to a Darlington nature reserve keep away from breeding birds.

Council officers say Brinkburn Local Nature Reserve had a disastrous breeding season last year because of people disturbing birds roosting next to the pond.

They are warning people who defy the signs, which tell visitors not to disturb one side of the pond between the months of March and July, that they could face prosecution and fines.

By creating a no-go area, it is hoped wetland birds such as ducks, geese and grebes will be able to breed and rear their young without being disturbed.

Philip Roxby, Darlington Borough Council's nature reserves officer, said: "The pond is very popular with local people. Last year, visitors to the pond visited right around during the sensitive nesting times because they didn't realise they were causing disturbance.

"No strict bird surveys were done but there was a notable absence of nesting birds last year.

"We want people to come and visit the pond but we also need to protect the wildlife and encourage more birds to breed."

He said people, including fishermen, were still able to enjoy the reserve and use the pond's access platforms, put in place last year by the council and the Environment Agency.

Councillor David Lyonette, the council's cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: "It is essential that visitors to this reserve use it sensitively by taking advantage of the access platforms put in place and take notice of the signs that will let them know where they can and can't walk in order to protect the safety of these breeding grounds."

David Hirst, North of England information officer for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, said: "It is sad to hear that wildlife at the Brinkburn nature reserve has been put at risk.

"We hope that the action taken by the council to put up warning signs will help safeguard the breeding birds."

Visitors can report anyone who ignores the signs by calling (01325) 388648.