A DOG walker has praised the “quick thinking” and “selflessness” of a couple who rescued some swans and cygnets from toppling down a plunge pool.

Rebecca Fletcher was on her usual trek by the stretch of Sankey Valley, at Blackbrook in the early evening on Sunday, May 15.

She noticed that the netting which prevents swans from falling down the plunge pool and becoming trapped in the overflow area had been cut.

A pair of swans and some cygnets were in danger of getting stranded but for the actions of a thoughtful couple.

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“I was walking the dog and there were quite a few people around,” said Rebecca, 43.

“Some inconsiderate person had cut the net that had prevented the swans from toppling over into the waterfall.

“The swans and the cygnets were ready to be swept down. A couple who had obviously walked past previously and saw what had happened.

“The swans were trying to protect the cygnets.”

Rebecca, from Haydock, added: “The man got in with waders on and had a net, and got each one of the cygnets and passed them to the lady.

“Thankfully with the quick thinking of the couple and sheer determination the swans and their cygnets were moved back to the safe place near their nest.

“He fixed the net as well.”  

Rebecca said: “The couple deserve recognition for their selflessness and caring nature. I’m only sorry I didn't ask for their names. It was at around 6pm, they looked to be in around their early 50s.

“It’s nice to know there are such decent human beings still around.”