INCENSED wildlife lovers have put up a £500 reward to flush out swan killers.

They have guaranteed anonymity to whoever helps nail the airgunner who fired slugs in to the heads of the breeding pair of mutes at Atherleigh's Lucky Hollow pond, reported exclusively in last week's Journal.

"It's rotten to think that anyone would do this," said nature lover Bill Partington, who with other concerned individuals and business people has stumped-up the bounty money.

"We just can't let this happen. These were Royal birds and soon they would have been nesting and raising young.

"I hope whoever shot the swans has been boasting about what they have done.

"There is a £500 reward and all people have to do is to ring Crimestoppers on freephone number 0800 555 111, quote case number 966/2000 and give their information.

"They will be given a reference number relating to that information. If someone is arrested and convicted of the offence following a tip-off, the £500 will be paid in to a bank account relating to that reference number," said Bill.

Subscribers to the reward fund are:

J P Evans Welding Supplies

Tom Boydell Joinery

Atherton Old Hall Farm stables

Waterfields Bakery

Farrar and Caffari upholsterers

The Boat House (Astley)

Southern & Howarth joiners and builders

Daten Electrical

Bill Partington

The Journal.

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