Swan rescued after wing caught on fishing line in Downholland

The bird was spotted in difficulty on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in Downholland

A swan has been rescued after becoming tangled in discarded fishing line caught on an overhanging branch, leaving it unable to swim away.

The bird was spotted in difficulty on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal at Green's Lane in Downholland, on 14 January, the RSPCA said.

As a boat was needed to reach the swan, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service "came to the rescue", the charity said.

The bird was then given the all-clear and "went happily on his way."

RSPCA animal rescue officer David Mcelwee said: "We're really grateful to the crew from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service for their assistance with this tricky job.

"Our own boat wasn't available at the time and it was the only way the swan could be reached.

"There was a lot of fishing line attached to his wing and the risk of injury would have increased the longer he was left."

Group manager Liam Wilson, from the fire service, said crews were "glad we could assist".

Group manager Liam Wilson, from the fire service, said crews were "glad we could assist"

Incidents involving discarded fishing litter were commonplace, the RSPCA said.

The charity received 1,245 such calls across England and Wales in 2022, with numbers tending to peak during the summer months.

Mr Mcelwee added: "We get a variety of calls to rescue animals, mainly water birds, which have fallen victim to discarded line, weights and hooks.

"Many of them can be saved but they can require a lot of care, treatment and rehabilitation as a result.

"Others aren't so lucky and sometimes their injuries are just too severe for them to survive.

"The effects of discarded litter can be devastating for wildlife, especially when there is such a simple solution: clear up your litter - whether it's fishing-related or general - and take it home with you."