Reward offered to convict swan killer: Thrybergh Country Park
(S65 - Tuesday, 15 June, 2010)

During the May bank holiday weekend, (29th - 31st May), a female swan was shot with an air weapon while on its nest, brooding six eggs, near the Thrybergh Lane entrance inside Thrybergh Country Park.

Officers from the local Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) and Rangers from the park are appalled that someone could carry out such an attack on a defenceless animal and are now working together to ensure the safety of other animals and visitors to the park.

PS Bill Bell said:

"Residents are shocked that this has happened and are understandably concerned that there is someone in the area who is quite happy to fire an air weapon in a public park.

"Unfortunately, despite coverage in the local papers, no witnesses have come forward and we have not received any information as to who may be responsible for killing the swan.

"We have therefore decided to offer a reward of £200 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individual who not only killed the swan, but who put other park users in danger by firing a weapon in a public place."

One happy outcome from this incident is that five of the six eggs found in the swan's nest have now hatched and are currently being cared for by staff at Graves Park in Sheffield.

Peter Fletcher, Graves Park Manager said:

"The chicks are healthy and thriving and seem to be enjoying all the attention they are getting at the moment.

"We hope that the reward money will encourage someone to do the right thing and report to the police who it was that shot and killed their mother."

Anyone with information can call the Safer Neighbourhood Team on 01709 832 422.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Thrybergh Country Park
Rotherham
South Yorkshire
S65