RESIDENTS at a Southampton old folks' home are back watching their beloved birds, thanks to generous Daily Echo readers.

Pensioners living at Woodside Lodge care home were heartbroken after thieves stole a bird-table and bath from the grounds.

The ornaments had been bought in memory of a late resident and had great sentimental value.

Staff said watching the birds was one of the main pleasures for many residents, several of whom were housebound.

But now kind-hearted Sholing bird lovers Frederick and Dorothy Wellstead have stepped in with a new table for the home.

Mr Wellstead made the residents a new wooden bird-table after read-ing of their plight in the Daily Echo.

He said: "I saw how somebody had the decency to rob this home and decided I would offer them a replacement.

"Being a pensioner myself, I know how older people spend a lot of time looking at the birds."

The carved table, complete with squirrel-proof nut feeders, now has prime position in a side garden at the council-run home in Wimpson Lane.

Residents are now able to watch their feathered friends from the comfort of the lounge as well as outside.

Delighted manager Brian Johnson said: "I am very grateful to the Daily Echo for highlighting our difficulty.

"It is a joy to know there are people out there like Mr Wellstead who will respond to our needs. We are very lucky indeed."

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