Appeal after reports of animal cruelty to cygnets

Two reports of animal cruelty towards young swans in a town in Derbyshire are being investigated.

The Derbyshire Rural Crime Team said an injured cygnet was found dead at Barker's Lock, off Awsworth Road in Ilkeston, on Monday 25 May.

The team said online reports had also been made of cruelty towards a cygnet at nearby Ilkeston Football Ground on Tuesday 19 May.

Issuing an appeal for information, a spokesperson said: "Two incidents. Same area. We need your help."

The cygnet injured on 19 May was reportedly taken in by a member of the public.

Police want to speak to witnesses who saw either of the injured birds, or who may have footage, to make contact.

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