LEAD poisoning and dog attacks are just two of the problems threatening swans in Warrington.

Cathy Clements, who runs the Swan Sanctuary in Callands, has spoken out about some of the issues facing the creatures, as the RSPCA campaigns to stop the growing amount of litter being dumped and causing injuries to birds.

There has also been an increasing amount of dog attacks on swans in the town recently - though injuries caused by lead shot used by anglers continues to be a major problem.

Cathy said: "There have been occasions when dogs with their owners have attacked swans.

"Surely if someone knows that their dog is going to chase something they should be able to keep it under control."

In terms of lead poisoning, Cathy has identified hot spots in Warrington including the pool at Longbarn Park, Gemini Retail Park pool and Sankey Valley Canal.

She said: "When babies are born, the parents pull up the roots of plants and of course they are pulling up debris and can become tangled in fishing line.

"They can also come across the lead weights, which are illegal over a certain weight - but sometimes the tiny ones can be even worse for the swans."

Cathy refers her swans to Stapeley Grange Hospital near Nantwich, where staff have raised concerns about the number of swans being admitted due to lead poisoning and also following incidents caused by litter.