Appeal after swan shot dead

A baby swan has been shot dead in an air gun attack at a Sandwell beauty spot, prompting a £500 reward for information leading to the conviction of the culprit.Horrified walkers found the lifeless cygnet floating in the River Tame, in Great Bridge, this morning. It was spotted amongst reeds in Haines Branch Walkway.

Experts believe it was shot last night, possibly at nearby Sheepwash Local Nature Reserve and has floated down the river to the popular walkway.

Local campaigner and businessman Mac Beckley has put up the cash reward. He said he had been left "sickened" by the incident - the latest in a long line of attacks on birds.

"I cannot understand who would want to do this or their motivations," he said."This is absolutely appalling and I am sickened by it.

"I am putting up £500 out of my own pocket to help catch whoever did it. They are just mindless thugs and they need catching and punishing."

Police have launched patrols in the area in response to attacks.

West Midlands Police is also investigating the cygnet shooting.

Anyone with information should call officers on 0845 113 5000.