YOUNGSTERS from across Wiltshire came together last Saturday and created tree sparrow villages in Marlborough to help the declining population.

The numbers of tree sparrows has fallen dramatically in recent years so to help combat the problem Marlborough Downs Nature Improvement Area, Community Action Wiltshire and Wiltshire Council organised a day for people to help create safe habitats for the birds on two farms in the Marlborough Downs Nature Improvement area.

Tree sparrows nest in colonies close to all the things that they need: water, food, places to nest and low scrub that excludes predators.

The event involved young carers and leaders from 1st Chiseldon Cubs who planted trees and made nesting boxes, which provide the perfect environment for the birds to thrive.

Rose Somerset, communications officer for North Wessex Downs AONB, said: “It was a lovely sunny day and great to see two groups of young people out enjoying the fabulous views across the Marlborough Downs and working hard to improve the habitats for tree sparrows.”

Sharon Worby, Youth Action Wiltshire Support Worker, said: “The young carers had a fantastic day, full of new experiences.”

For more information on how to get involved helping tree sparrows, email info@northwessedowns.org.uk