some kind of sparrow

I'm sure it's not an ordinary house sparrow.

Female House Finch? - TF

Paul, you need to get yourself a bird ID book. :D I would have to think it's some kind of finch, also.

I have a UK bird book, not one for the USA :)

Yes, it is a female house finch. Purple finch has thicker and more pronounced white "eyebrows".

P.S. If you don't have a bird book for North America, here's an online one which I occasionally use. The images aren't exactly real photos (drawings) but they give you a general idea. Lots of useful information is available, including a great "bird feature" tool that narrows down species as you input known information about the mystery bird. (i.e. stubby bill, red chest, small body size, etc.).

If you took this in the US, it is indeed a house finch.

Great website.
What I always wanted to identify birds.
Big/Little, what colour etc.