Swans die in 'sickening' attack

Police have described an attack on six swans found dead on a Teesside golf course as "sickening".

The adult male and five cygnets were discovered at Hunley Hall in Brotton.

They had suffered puncture wounds, which may have been due to attacks by dogs, although one of the cygnets had been strung from a tree.

The male is one of a pair which have reared their young on the course for eight years, and the female has not yet been found.

'Despicable crime'

A statement by Cleveland Police said that officers and golf club staff were sickened by the discovery.

Wildlife officer Pc Ian Solomon said he believed the birds had been killed deliberately.

"To right minded people this type of crime beggars belief.

"The birds pair for life and we are hoping the public will help us find those responsible for this despicable crime."

He appealed for anyone with any information, or those who may have seen people with dogs near the golf course, to get in touch.