WARNING '“ DISTRESSING PICTURE: Fresh witness appeal nearly a month after swan and cygnet '˜mown down' in Wingerworth

Police have issued a fresh appeal for witnesses almost a month after a swan and cygnet were killed in Wingerworth.
Picture submitted by Kerry Cunningham.Picture submitted by Kerry Cunningham.
Picture submitted by Kerry Cunningham.

The birds were hit by a vehicle in Nethermoor Road on the morning of Monday, June 27.

It is alleged the swan and cygnet were deliberately mown down.

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Swans are a much-loved part of Wingerworth and have lived in the area for years.

Wingerworth residents told of their shock following the distressing incident.

Kerry Cunningham said: “This is an utter tragedy.

“The swan family has been ripped apart.

“As a village we have always kept an eye on them – and now this.”

Christine Proctor said: “This is so sad. Something must be done to protect them.”

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Candice Jacks said: “Awful. These swans are a big part of Wingerworth.”

Amanda Boler said: “What kind of human being would do that?”

Jane Cox said: “I just can’t believe someone would do that. Shocking.”

Janice Dyson added: “The killing of the swan and cygnet has united the village into finding the perpetrator of this dreadful incident.”

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One swan and three cygnets now live in Wingerworth and people are being urged to protect them.

According to the RSPB, the Queen has a prerogative over all swans in England and Wales.

As native wild birds, swans enjoy statutory protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is an offence to intentionally injure, take or kill a wild swan.

A Derbyshire Constabulary spokesman said: “Police are continuing to investigate the deaths of a swan and cygnet in Wingerworth.

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“Villagers called police at around 8.10am on Monday, June 27, to report that a swan and cygnet had been hit by a vehicle in Nethermoor Road.

“Witnesses have alleged that a van or car drove deliberately at the birds.

“Anyone with information should call Derbyshire police on 101, quoting incident number 110 of June 27.”