AN OWL which is believed to have flown into power lines after being confused by smoke from the massive tyre fire near Selby has died.

The short eared owl, nicknamed Phoenix, was found near the fire at Newgen Recycling with serious injuries last weekend, and given to the charity Selby Wildlife Rehabilitation.

Annette Pyrah, of the charity, said today that the bird had sadly died yesterday, probably from its injuries and shock. "We did our best for her," she added.