A 23-year-old woman named Sam Ekins, originally from Huddersfield, faced an unexpected fine during her birthday outing in Manchester. On March 9, while she and her partner were enjoying a meal outside a McDonald’s in Piccadilly Gardens, they encountered a pigeon that approached their table. In an unthinking moment, Sam dropped a small piece of tortilla on the ground for the bird. However, the situation escalated quickly when an enforcement officer issued her a £150 fixed penalty notice for littering.

Officer’s Arrival and the Fine

Sam recounted that the food had already been consumed by other pigeons before the officer arrived. She asserted that within moments of feeding the bird, there was nothing left on the ground. The enforcement officer approached the couple shortly after, and Sam felt the encounter was intimidating, particularly since her partner is a wheelchair user. Describing her feelings during the incident, she mentioned that the officer was much taller than herself, making her feel vulnerable in that moment.

Unaware of the Law

Sam expressed surprise at being fined for her action, asserting that she was unaware that feeding birds could be classified as an offense. Having grown up in Southport, she believed feeding birds was a harmless activity. She thought the officer was merely issuing a warning when he requested her identification. However, the situation escalated quickly, and she received the penalty notice after her details were taken.

Financial Impact of the Penalty

The financial impact of the fine has been particularly challenging for the couple. They recently relocated to Huddersfield and are in the process of furnishing their new home while living on a limited budget. Sam’s partner, who has a disability, is unable to work and relies on benefits for support, making the unexpected fine all the more burdensome. Sam conveyed their struggles, highlighting that they are currently managing on a single income. In light of this financial strain, the couple has started a GoFundMe page to raise funds for the fine while they dispute the notice.

Anxiety About Returning to Manchester

Following the incident, Sam has developed apprehensions about visiting Manchester again. She admitted that the experience has left her feeling anxious, fearing that she might inadvertently break a law of which she is unaware. This feeling of nervousness has been amplified by the unexpected penalty she faced during what was supposed to be a celebratory occasion.

Council’s Position on Littering

In response to the incident, a spokesperson for Manchester City Council stated that dropping food on the ground, regardless of the intent, constitutes littering. The council affirmed that enforcement officers are authorized to issue fixed penalty notices if they witness such actions. Additionally, they noted that food litter can attract vermin and has the potential to damage public spaces. However, they confirmed that Sam’s case is currently under review while her specific circumstances are considered. The council emphasized the shared responsibility of residents and visitors to help maintain cleanliness in the city, prompting further discussions online about the rigidity of littering enforcement and the appropriateness of penalties for common behaviors such as feeding birds.

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