Support for catapult measures after swan attacks

Volunteers say the number of catapult attacks on swans increased dramatically from January

Surrey's deputy police and crime commissioner has called for regulations over the sale of catapults and having them in public.

It follows a campaign launched in January by volunteers at the Shepperton Swan Sanctuary following a series of attacks on swans and other water birds.

They said in January and February seven birds have been killed and four seriously injured, almost all by missiles fired from catapults.

On a visit to the sanctuary, deputy commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson said more legislation was needed over the "silent, lethal weapons".

She said: "These cruel attacks on swans are deeply distressing.

“More legislation around catapult use is urgently needed. In the wrong hands, they can become silent, lethal weapons.

“They are also connected to vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

“I have discussed this issue with ministers, and will continue to lobby for a change in the law.”

Deputy Commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson and Danni Rogers, a Shepperton Swan Sanctuary volunteer rescuer.

The attacks have taken place in Godstone, Staines, Reigate and Woking in Surrey, and Odiham in Hampshire.

The sanctuary is calling for a change in the law because the police have told him it is hard to take action unless the attackers are caught in the act.

Sanctuary volunteer Danni Rogers said: “The injuries are horrific.

"They suffer broken necks and legs, broken wings, the loss of their eyes, and the weapons used in these attacks are easily accessible to anyone.

“Online retailers sell these dangerous weapons and ammunition online very cheaply.

"We’re facing an epidemic of wildlife crime, and something needs to change."