The fight to save allotments housing the country's only listed pigeon crees has been backed by more than 25 MPs.
The pigeon loft belonging to Maurice Surtees and Lewis Llewellyn at the Ryhope Allotments has made headlines around the world over the past 10 years.
And the pair of pigeon fanciers have even hosted a Hollywood film star at the cree.
But the land on which the allotments sit is earmarked for development and the tenants have been told they must leave.
Now, with just weeks to go, MPs from across the country and from all political parties are getting behind a last ditch bid to save the Grade II listed lofts.
Fraser Kemp, MP for Houghton and Washington East, has filed a Common's Motion arguing the allotments should be saved, and he says support for the cause in the House of Commons is growing every day.
He said: "I just think it's an indication as to the absolutely amazing amount of support we've had for the campaign. I've had messages of support from people all over the place."
Mr Kemp added that he had been surprised how many people remembered the pigeon loft from the first round of the fight to save the allotments in 1998.
The campaign of retired pitman Maurice, 75, and retired fitter Lewis, 65, made international news 10 years ago when they first took on plans to remove their cree, which has been at the Back Ryhope Street site since 1953.
Earlier this year, actor Robbie Coltrane swapped Hollywood for Wearside to make a TV programme about the pair for his series B-Road Britain.The Harry Potter star
spent a day with Maurice and Lewis to learn more about their fight.
Inspired by their story, Mr Kemp put down a motion stating: "This House supports the campaign by Ryhope Allotment holders to maintain and protect their environment which includes the nation's only listed pigeon crees."These historic allotments should be held in trust by the community and provide facilities for local children to enjoy and understand horticulture and the care of pigeons."
More than 25 MPs have now signed up to the motion, and Mr Kemp says the number is growing every day.
The Back Ryhope Street site has eight established pigeon lofts.
Mr Surtees' loft was built in 1953 using equipment and materials "borrowed" from the pit.
It has already won Grade II status from English Heritage, and in September is was one of the main attractions features in the Tyne and Wear Heritage Open Days programme.
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Last Updated: 24 November 2007 9:39 AM
