Reward to trap swan killer

The female swan was shot with an air rifle as it sat on its nest, containing six eggs, near to the Thrybergh Lane entrance to Thrybergh Country Park during the May bank holiday weekend.

Officers from the local Safer Neighbourhood Team and rangers from the park were appalled by the attack and are now working to ensure the safety of other animals and visitors to the park.

Their plan to track down the swan’s killer includes offering a £200 reward to anyone who comes forward with information leading to the arrest or conviction of the culprit.

Sgt Bill Bell said: “Residents are shocked that this has happened and are understandably concerned that there is someone in the area who is quite happy to fire an air weapon in a public park.

“Unfortunately, despite coverage in the local papers, no witnesses have come forward and we have not received any information as to who may be responsible for killing the swan.

“We have therefore decided to offer a reward of £200 From page one.

to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individual who not only killed the swan, but who put other park users in danger by firing a weapon in a public place.”

Five of the six eggs found in the dead swan’s nest have now hatched and are  being cared for by staff at Graves Park, Sheffield.

Graves Park manager Peter Fletcher said: “We hope that the reward money will encourage someone to do the right thing”

Anyone with information should contact police on 01709 832422.