Thousands of the birds can be seen across north Norfolk fields

Each winter about 100,000 pink-footed geese - a third of their population - head for Norfolk to feed on sugar beet tops left over from the harvest.

The birds come in such large numbers they can cause damage to winter crops.

Now the RSPB, English Nature and British Sugar have teamed up to provide a new leaflet for farmers which advises them how to manage the geese.

It advises that winter crops can be protected if farmers avoid disturbing geese feeding on sugar beet and by leaving sugar beet tops on fields for as long as possible.

Farmers are also asked to take management measures on large fields to keep geese away from roads and public footpaths.

We love having the geese on our farm and they are one of the great sights in the long, cold, wet winter months Farmer Edward Cross

Rob Lucking, of the RSPB said: "We know many Norfolk farmers are already leaving sugar beet tops out and willingly accommodate the geese on their land.

"We hope that this leaflet gives the advice farmers need to ensure that they can gain the benefits of undamaged crops whilst at the same time providing geese with a safe and valuable place to feed."

Filtcham farmer Edward Cross said: "Pink-feet are enjoyed by many people and are one of the few birds for which Norfolk is of global importance.

"Several farmers are already working to help the geese. I hope the leaflet enables others to join in.

"We love having the geese on our farm and they are one of the great sights in the long, cold, wet winter months."