Mother swan and two cygnets killed in canal lock

Three swans have been killed in a canal after they were crushed between a lock wall and a boat.

An eyewitness told BBC Hereford and Worcester that the two cygnets became trapped inside the lock and were unable to escape, while their mother attempted to "protect them".

They said the boat continued to enter the lock despite onlookers alerting those on board to the swans' presence.

The Canal and River Trust said the incident, which happened in Stourport on York Street on 11 July, was "tragic and entirely avoidable". West Mercia Police said it was aware of the deaths and would liaise with the RSPCA.

Known as Mrs BJS, the swan was a well-loved character in the area and had lived on the canal for six years, a local resident said.

They added the surviving two cygnets "constantly go up and down" the canal looking for their mother.

Charity the Canal and River Trust said it was "deeply saddening" to learn of the incident and urged anyone with information to contact the police or the RSPCA.

"[We are] devoted to protecting and supporting wildlife along our waterways - we are horrified by this cruel and senseless act," it said.

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