THE numbers of seabirds affected by the stricken MSC Napoli means it is standing room only at Teignmouth-based South Devon Seabird Trust. Seabirds that are being cared for by the husband and wife team have reached more than 70. And even though the trust is at capacity, founder Jean Bradford said: 'We don't want to turn any way.' Seventy-one birds have so far been found along the coast at Teignmouth, Shaldon and Dawlish, with a few arriving from Sidmouth. Two have died at the centre, but Mrs Bradford is hopeful of a full recovery for most of the birds. Mrs Bradford and husband Roger are washing four birds a day and the crew of the Teignmouth trawler Girl Rhona have been doing their bit. 'They have been providing us with fresh sprats every day, which is absolutely marvellous, The birds are getting through three stone of sprats between them. 'We are so grateful for their help,' she said. The crew have also been reporting any oiled birds out at sea. 'It means that we can assess the situation and find out what is happening further afield. They have been marvellous, undertaking conservation work as well as helping us,' she said. Devon County Council leader Cllr Brian Greenslade has pledged that the county council will ensure that a public inquiry is held into the beaching of the MSC Napoli off the east Devon coast. He said: 'I stated on the day following the beaching of the Napoli that the first imperative was to ensure that the situation was stabilised and our coastline protected as much as possible. 'I also said that I felt that subsequently a public inquiry would be appropriate. Accordingly, I have now written to the Secretary of State for Transport to ask what steps the government intend to take to ensure a public inquiry is held.
