Sir,

The Oiled Bird Rescue Centre at West Williamston has completed another successful season in its efforts to rescue and release young Manx Shearwaters.

With help from members of the public and a team of reliable and experienced volunteers, who continue to give their loyal and valuable support and for which I am extremely grateful, we have been responsible for rescuing 112 young birds and releasing 110 - the two casualties were birds that had been picked up on the road and were seriously injured.

On the few occasions when it has been necessary to check weather conditions, the Coastguard service has always been very helpful and this is appreciated, particularly as it is most important to know what lies ahead for these young birds on their journey south and especially once they have crossed the English Channel!

Every year brings something new and 2007 has been no exception.

The Oiled Bird Rescue Centre received coverage on two separate radio programmes - on Radio 4 and on BBC Wales - during the early part of the Shearwater Season, and this has been beneficial, to enable a wider range of the public to learn more about these birds which are special to Pembrokeshire.

Another outstanding event was being able to arrange transport for a Manx Shearwater picked up in Bedfordshire!

With the help of two friends who joined 'The Team' this bird was efficiently transported to the centre where it was fed and cared for until being successfully released.

This bird is carrying a BTO ring and we hope that in time there will be some 'follow up' on this special bird.

The opportunity to review old friendships and also to make new friends has been rewarding. On a personal note, I wish to thank most sincerely my 'special team', without whom this year's success would not have been possible.

Jean Hains,

The Oiled Bird Rescue Centre, Lower House Farm, West Williamston.