But none of this would have been possible if not for top-flight support from the Leigh Ornithological Society (LOS).

The society has chipped in with Wigan's Leisure & Culture Trust (WLCT) to make sure the feeding station has been kept well-stocked with food over the years, which in turn has helped to pull the birds. The station has also been supported by one-off donations from other organisations and individuals.

The feeding station can be viewed from the Flash's bunting hide, which is open 364 days a year from 9am until dusk. It offers perfect views of many wood and wetland species as well as less common breeds such as the Bullfinch, Reed Bunting and Willow Tit.

Pennington Flash senior ranger Peter Alker said :"The birds are often so close that you don’t need binoculars to get a good view and as a result it is a popular attraction with many visitors and not just dedicated birdwatchers.

"It has turned a lot of people onto bird watching who were not interested at first. It has been described as the feathered version of looking at a fish tank."

The hide was extended in 1997 with materials funded by LOS from donations made in memory of one of its members. Birdwatchers from across the North west and further a field regularly visit Pennington Flash. Bookings this winter have included visitors from Derby, Sheffield, Huddersfield, Halifax and Powys.  Mr Alker added: "Birdwatchers often comment on the feeding station at the Flash and say it's one of the best they have seen and this is thanks in no small part to the members of LOS.

"The group's help and support over the years has brought pleasure to a lot of people and has been appreciated by a broad range of visitors."