Swan shooting: Three arrested

4:34pm Tuesday 27th June 2006

THREE people have been arrested in connection with the shooting of a swan at a Bolton beauty spot.

Police swooped on three houses in Tonge Moor to arrest two boys, aged 15 and 17, and a 21-year-old man following the attack on the male bird earlier this month.

An air rifle was also recovered from one of the houses as officers made the arrests on Thursday and Friday last week.

RSPCA officers have also revealed their fears over the welfare of dead swan's cygnets, which were being looked after by the male swan's mate at their nest at Seven Acres Country Park in Tonge Moor.

It is believed the young birds have hatched since the shooting but have not been seen recently.

The two boys and man were arrested under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and bailed until a later date while officers take statements from witnesses.

Sgt Leon Jacobs said: "We have now made three arrests and bailed those people until a later date while we carry out inquiries and sent the firearm away for examination.

"We are still appealing for anybody with information to come forward.

"This was a disgusting crime which has appalled members of the public and police officers alike."

Police were called to the park on Monday, June 5, after the swan was shot at up to 20 times in front of horrified children and parents who were enjoying a walk in the evening.

RSPCA inspector Caroline Hall said: "It's concerning that we haven't seen the cygnets recently because we understood they had hatched.

"It would be a struggle for a single female to rear the young alone but not impossible.

"We're now working very closely with the police. We are confident that those responsible will be brought to justice."

Anybody with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 5761 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.