A wildlife rescue service have pleaded people to be more careful when walking their dogs after a swan was killed in a 'savage' attack.

Datchet-based wildlife rescue group Swan Support picked up a male swan from Wharf Lane in Bourne End yesterday after it had reportedly been attacked by three dogs. 

Treatment and Rescue Centre Co-ordinator, Wendy Hermon, said they had attended six swans who had been attacked by dogs over the last few weeks.

"This is the second swan attack that we have responded to within two days. Both incidents were totally avoidable."

She added: "Rivers are flowing very fast at this time of year so it's hard for swans to stay in. That means they are frequently out of the water, putting them at a higher risk of being attacked."

The male swan found in Bourne End yesterday was rescued by Swan Support and passed away last night while in the care of one of its rescuers.

Wendy said: "The swan was savagely attacked by three dogs, all of whom were off-lead and not wearing collars. It's very sad because the female swan who was his breeding partner keeps calling out for him.

"All we ask is that people keep their dogs on leads when there is a high chance of wildlife being around. What's worse is that some people think it's acceptable to let their dogs chase swans, assuming they'll just fly away.

"It makes me lost for words, that people can be so ignorant of the consequences of letting their dogs chase after vulnerable wildlife."

A police spokesperson said: “Thames Valley Police received a report of three dogs attacking a swan in Wharf Lane yesterday at around 11:50am. Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.”