Police probe attack on swan

POLICE at Warrington are investigating an incident in which a nesting swan was attacked by a dog.
It is not clear if the female swan was killed, although it is understood the incident was captured on a mobile ‘phone.
The nest is believed to have been in a particularly vulnerable position and that the dog’s owner was in the vicinity. Park rangers had been informed about the nest prior to the incident and a local councillor is calling for the restoration of a permanent Ranger Service presence in Sankey Valley Park following the incident.
Coun Judith Wheeler (pictured) said: “I am furious that we do not have resident rangers on Sankey Valley Park.
“They may not have been able to prevent this incident, but when we had residents rangers they did a marvellous job protecting the park and the neglect is beginning to show.
“We have graffiti, litter, drinking, motor bikes, irresponsible dog owners, etc.
“I walked through the park this evening and it was extremely busy and the possibility of anti-social behaviour can only be increased if there is no-one in positions of authority – ie the Rangers) to keep their eye on things.”
The Whittle Hall councillor said rangers once had a permanent presence in Sankey Valley Park until 8pm. which was ideal because after that the park quietens down.
She could not understand how the council just justify permanent rangers in Orford Park but neglect Sankey Valley park.
Coun Wheeler said she was aware that rangers did patrol Sankey Valley Park but added: “It is patently not adequate as any regular user of the Park will testify.”
She said she had asked police to keep a closer watch on the park.
“This was not needed when we had resident rangers – it is now.”
A police spokesman said the incident involving the swan was being investigated.