Anglers poisoning swans?

IT IS believed that anglers fishing the Avon are using illegal lead weight, as swans around Stratford are suffering from lead poisoning, confirmed by blood tests.

High levels of lead have been found in the swans which have been tested at Wychbold Swan Rescue where experts say that if correct treatment and care isn't given to the birds quickly they will eventually die, Alan Tilbury reveals.

Three in one day

Three swans were found to be suffering in a single day last week, and were treated by the rescue centre, with Jan Harrigan, its founder and manager stating it was a 'cause for concern'.

Though the cause of the poisoning is not known, it is thought they might be digesting the illegal lead weights known to be used by unscrupulous anglers, fishing the river.

There are around 60 swans on the Avon at Stratford, with an increase in illness, and the public being asked to report any seemingly out of condition.