BUSINESSES with strong North-East links are among those supporting the work of conservation organisation the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO).

The BTO has announced that more than 30 businesses are part of its Birds and Business Alliance.

Companies involved include Northumbrian Water and British Energy, which operates Hartlepool’s nuclear power station.

BTO spokesman Andy Clements said support from involved companies included funding and allowing ornithologists to carry out survey work on sites.

He said: “Most importantly to us is the fact that all this support is given in such a way so as not to compromise the independence and impartiality of the work of the BTO.”

BTO’s work includes surveying bird numbers to report on trends and practical conservation projects.