Concern sparked over swan deaths

The swans were from the first to be recorded breeding at Firsby

Five swans have been killed in "suspicious circumstances" at a reservoir in South Yorkshire.

Rotherham Borough Council claims hunters killed the swans which are the first to have been bred at Firsby Reservoir, near Thrybergh.

The authority is concerned about the increase of hunting with guns, dogs and ferrets as well as excessive drinking, vandalism and motorbikes on the site.

They urge anyone who sees something suspicious to contact police.

Visitors intimidated

The area is designated as a local nature reserve, and managed by the council's Green Spaces Unit.

A spokesman said: "Legitimate users of this lovely site are being intimidated to the point where they stop visiting and the local wildlife is certainly suffering.

"All five young from the first recorded breeding of swans at Firsby have been lost - most of them under suspicious circumstances."

He added that there are a number of dangers of anti-social behaviour, especially in an area like Firsby Reservoir.

'Appalling' threat

He said: "Swimming in open water can be extremely dangerous and the implications of using guns in a public place are obvious."

Councillor Georgina Boyes, cabinet member for education, culture and leisure services, described the reservoir as a very important site where people can appreciate the Rotherham countryside.

"It is appalling that this kind of asset can be threatened like this and I would ask all visitors to the site to report any incidents and bad behaviour."