NEW homes await a variety of visitors expected to arrive in Winsford Town Park.

A collection of 22 bird boxes has been created to welcome blue tits, robins, blackbirds and various other species as they hatch new families.

The little wooden nests have been made by army veteran Derek Birbeck, from Winsford.

Northwich Guardian:

Army veteran Derek Birbeck has made 22 bird boxes for Winsford Town Park

The 77-year-old usually makes bird boxes to raise funds for injured troops receiving specialist care at Fisher House in Birmingham.

This homely facility provides free accommodation for military families beside the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, which treats all UK injured military patients.

The 18-bedroom ‘home away from home’ offers a supportive environment where residents have the space to relax and allows patients to spend time with their loved ones away from the wards.

Grandad Derek, of Dierden Street, said: "This place is absolutely fantastic. Staff can't do enough for them.. I met one soldier who had no legs and only one arm and had won a gold medal in a marathon. I've seen a girl of 18 with her legs missing. It really brings home what soldiers have done for us.

"All the money I make goes to them."

Northwich Guardian:

All the money Derek raises goes to Fisher House in Birmingham where families can stay with injured troops as they receive specialist care

Dad-of-three Derek served in the Royal Artillery for 15 years, specialising in missiles.

He helped to raise £120,000 at a charity shop when he lived in Lincoln and now makes all sorts of wooden items including garden trugs and bird tables.

Derek and his wife Lesley, a paper crafter, enjoy making things at the Crosshatch Gallery in the town centre.

Lesley said: "Everyone pulls together and helps each other. It's a very friendly place."

The bird boxes will be put up by volunteers from the Friends of the town park.

The Friends received a £250 grant from Winsford Town Council for the boxes,” added John. “We were delighted that we could have them made here in Winsford and Derek has done a great job. We can’t wait to see the first occupants moving in!”