There's a lot of trepidation about the forecast 'Beast from the East' - the freezing weather resulting from the polar vortex. If you're worried about how garden birds can cope, why not spend 15 minutes making bird cakes to put out for the week.

There are so very many different types of seeds and fat balls available to buy but it is still fun to get your hands messy and create your own treat for the birds.

This sticky bird cake puts used yoghurt pots to good use and you can choose which types of birds you are treating depending on which ingredients you incorporate.

You will need

Lard or suet

Garden twine

Used yoghurt pots

Wild bird seed, currants, sultanas, oats, bread and cake crumbs and peanuts.

The best ratio a third of fat with two thirds of dry mixture. Mix all your dry ingredients together and melt some lard or suet before adding the dry mix. Stir well until the fat has all been absorbed and the mixture sticks together.

Make a hole in the bottom of a yoghurt pot and thread a length of twine through it. Pack the pot with your warm fat mixture then put in the fridge to set. Once it has, cut through and peel off the pot and tie a big knot at one end of the twine to secure the cake. If you make a batch you can keep them in the freezer to take out when you need. If you prefer to use them in wire cages the birds will be equally as happy as when hanging free.