THE RSPCA has issued a statement after they were called to a wildlife haven to investigate the death of one swan and reports of an injury to another.

The organisation was called following two separate reports of swans being found injured or dead in Sankey Valley park, St Helens earlier this month.

Reports from residents alleged that at least one of the animals may have been shot.

However, investigators have found no evidence of this.

Thye issued a statement in which they said they found nothing to suggests birds or other swans had been shot - but have asked residents to "monitor the situation".

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “We were called to reports of a swan death at Sankey Park at the [last] weekend.

"We found one deceased swan but there was no evidence it had been shot.

“We also attended on Monday following reports that a male swan had been found injured and possibly shot.

"We found a male swan and he had a slight injury under the chin but this was nothing of concern and may have been caused by another bird.

"Otherwise he was healthy and lively.

“There was no evidence that any of the swans or any other birds had been shot but we have advised local people to monitor the situation.

“We would always urge people to report incidents of animal cruelty to us on 0300 1234999.

“All wild birds, including swans, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take them except under licence.

"The maximum penalty, if found guilty, is six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, the use of crossbows to kill or take wild birds is also prohibited.”