A man renowned for his love of feeding pigeons in Morecambe has died.
John Wilkinson was known as 'The Birdman' or 'The Pigeon Man' of Morecambe and could often be seen feeding the birds in the local area from his trolley of bread.
Mr Wilkinson earned national fame in 2014 when a campaign to 'Free the Morecambe Birdman' was launched after he was sent to prison for six weeks for breaching an anti-social behaviour order restricting him from feeding his beloved pigeons.
The West End Impact charity posted the news of Mr Wilkinson's death on Monday.
"It is with great sadness that John Wilkinson's family have let us know that he sadly passed away this morning after a short illness," said Emma Wareing from West End Impact, in a post on the West End Impact Hub Facebook page.
"John was an amazing man who blessed so many people with his charm and knowledge.
"Everyone at Impact will miss him and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
"This post is genuine and we know there have been a lot of rumours but I have posted after speaking to the family and with their permission.
"Rest in Peace lovely John. I pray you are surrounded with books and birds and free of pain."
The Pets R Us & Fertility Clinic at New Inn Yard in Poulton, Morecambe, where John was a customer, also posted a tribute to him.
"Really sad news. Rest in peace John. We will miss you dearly at our shop! Thoughts are with his family."
In an interview with The Visitor newspaper in 2014, John explained his love of feeding pigeons.
"I enjoy feeding birds, it relaxes me mentally," he said.
"It improves my powers of concentration."



New Irish pub set to open in Morecambe
Families invited to become superheroes for mini marathon in Morecambe
Children celebrate success in Beyond Radio's first Junior Poet Laureate Competition
PHOTOS: Work continues on new apartments at landmark former hotel in Morecambe
Adam Lakeland unveiled as new Morecambe FC manager
LISTEN: Mastermind champ from Lancaster to host charity quiz at city venue
Unique workshop tackling racism in schools to be held in Lancaster
Painless blood test championed by Lancaster family wins NHS Excellence Award
Police issue wildfire warning after bonfires reported on fells near Lancaster
Launch in Morecambe for book which could save you thousands in tax
Plans for up to 90 new homes near Bay Gateway could get green light
Mayor to re-enact ancient sheep tradition at Lancaster farm
Lancaster by-election candidates named
Firefighters tackle lorry fire at business premises in Heysham
Lancaster police continue drive to tackle city centre street drinking
Exhibition inspired by Eden Project Morecambe to open in Lancaster
Spectacular night-time drone show to be part of Armed Forces weekend in Morecambe
LISTEN: Sing along as venue celebrates Eric Morecambe's 100th birthday
Morecambe Vintage Bus Day receives grant boost
Morecambe pensioner, 94, to release debut album for charity

