The idea of a pigeon cull has brought a mixed response from the public.

Cassie Fletcher, a trustee at the Cellarhead-based Animal Lifeline charity, said: "I think it's disgusting and barbaric. I know people who actually take seed along with them to Hanley to feed the pigeons as they're part of the town."

Maintenance worker Jim Berrisford, aged 57, from Brown Edge, said: "The issues with pigeons is their faeces and the illnesses that can be caused if you get any of it on your hands. They come down and look for places to shelter."

Hanley shopper Steve Pickup, aged 20, from Bentilee, said: "When you're up Hanley, you do find yourself having to duck out of their way. I don't think signs warning people not to feed them would work anymore."