TWO pupils at a North-East school have backed a plea for better treatment of Britain's owls.

Lorna Brown and Rowan Whittington, both aged ten and from Darlington, were so moved by a campaign backed by Harry Potter author JK Rowling that they wrote an article for the Abbey Junior School newspaper.

Their interest was sparked after The Northern Echo published an article based on a campaign by Neil and Juliana Fowler, who run the Scotton Owl and Raptor Rehabilitation (Soarr) sanctuary in Scotton Village, near Richmond, North Yorkshire.

The couple were concerned by the number of people ringing up asking for owls following the success of the Harry Potter books and movies.

One of the characters in the stories is an owl called Hedwig, and parents were trying to buy the birds for their children, even though the creatures should only be looked after by experts.

Mr and Mrs Fowler wrote to JK Rowling, pointing out that filmmakers Warner Brothers had appealed for responsible ownership, and the author readily added her voice to the plea.

When Rowan and Lorna heard about the campaign, they decided to publicise it through their school newspaper.

Rowan said: "We both like the Harry Potter books, but feel that people should not look after owls unless they have the right equipment."

Lorna said: "I have read the latest Harry Potter book, but I do feel it is important that owls are properly cared for."

Their article makes a plea for responsible ownership, and Abbey Junior School headteacher George Ford said: "It never ceases to amaze me the innovation which a lot of the children here show. They really do take the initiative."

* Soarr runs on voluntary donations. Anyone wishing to help should call Mr and Mrs Foster on (01748) 836950.