Missing emu found dead after public search

Irwin has been found dead in a river

An emu that has been missing from an animal sanctuary for a week has been found dead in a local river after a public search.

Malmesbury Animal Sanctuary first announced Irwin the emu was missing on 30 September, and he was found on Sunday during the latest search of the River Avon.

While emus can swim, the sanctuary believed he would have struggled to if he entered the water at night, and the river was running fast after heavy rainfall.

The charity said it made the announcement of his death "with a heavy heart", and described Irwin as a "jolly emu who loved cuddles".

Members of the public have been out helping in the search - including getting into the river

Volunteers and sanctuary volunteers were out searching on Sunday, including one on a paddleboard and another wearing waders.

The charity said: "We extend our heartfelt, and sincere gratitude to everybody who sent us best wishes, reposted on social media, and searched with us.

"Your spirit of hope and positive energy has given us much strength this past week."

Irwin was found near a bridge that was not easy to access previously due to river water running too fast.

There are other emus at the sanctuary, and it believes he may slipped into the river while playing.

Irwin (left) liked to play with other emus at the sanctuary

"Irwin was a jolly emu who loved cuddles, and especially cold showers during summer whereupon he would roll over before standing up and shaking himself dry before looking to us for another dowsing" added the sanctuary.

Also said to be "feisty", he would chase the younger emus.

One of his emu friends is known for his role in a police chase when a suspect ran into his field and he got there first.