Bird Feeders.

[Verve]

I have read that people should stop using bird tables because of the risk of disease and so many companies have stopped making them. As a result, I have discarded my bird table and replaced it with a pole system with hangers and bird feeders. That has been fine for the smaller birds such as sparrows, greenfinches and goldfinches but appears to have abandoned the blackbirds who always fed off my bird table. I have tried a tray supported on the pole to no avail. Has anyone else had the same problem? If so, what is the solution to encourage the blackbirds back please?

[Jacksparrow]

Blackbirds are ground feeders so if you've abandoned your bird table the only other option is to have an area set aside for sprinkling food like sultanas or apples. They quite happily scavenge what falls from the hanging feeders but they are more vulnerable to attack from cats.
While it is true that bird tables can be a source of infection I find the best way to feed is regularly in small amounts so it all gets eaten before disease gets a chance. Remember we only look to supplement the birds diet and not be the sole source.
P.S. There is currently a virus going around which is deadly to blackbirds. Any decrease in the numbers visiting may be because of this rather than feeding opportunities.