13th May 2020
This was taken from the Rotherham South Neighbourhood Police Facebook page today:
This morning at 11 am a male was arrested by the team in relation to the recent shooting of two swans and four ducks in the Turner Wood area which seen all four ducks and the female swan, who was nesting five eggs, killed. The male swan is making a steady recovery.
This afternoon a second male was also brought in for questioning. Enquiries are currently ongoing.
If you hold any information in relation to this please call 101 making reference to investigation number 14/69336/20.
2nd May 2020
Anyone who has ever been to Turnerwood will be familiar with the swans – Hilary and Stocky – which nest above Turnerwood Double Locks.
We are very sorry to report that both birds have been shot.
This beautiful pair of swans were found on Friday morning, 1st May.
As the female swan, Hilary, sat incubating her nest full of eggs, someone took her life by shooting her in the head with an air rifle.
H
er mate, Stocky, was also shot, as he attempted to defend her. He is now being treated in the Yorkshire Swan Rescue Hospital.
Several Mallards were also killed.
A reward of more than £1,000 – and rising – has already been raised by local people, for information leading to a successful prosecution.
If you have any information, please to contact South Yorkshire Police on 101 and quote 14/69336/20.
This pair of swans has been treated several times at the hospital over the years and has a very fond place in the hearts of many.
These photos show Dan Sidley from the Yorkshire Swan Rescue Hospital collecting Hilary in the summer of 2017 for treatment to an infected eye socket. Later Stocky was also taken to the hospital suffering from lead poisoning. Both recovered fully.
Here Hilary and her cygnets are being returned to the water after being ringed.
This shows Stocky with Matt Baker whilst filming for Countryfile last May.
Hilary on her nest with an egg.
In the most recent edition of our magazine, Cuckoo, Margaret Edge wrote this poem about Hilary and Stocky. We know that it touched many people’s hearts. It is even more poignant now. Margaret also took the photo above earlier this year.
Devotion
They met upon the glassy water.
Young love among rushes and reeds.
Bodies dancing around each other.
They know now what each other needs.
Their beautiful ballet enraptures all.
As they glide side by side in love.
Devotion, in silence. Lost in themselves.
White as angels from heaven above.
A heart shaped frame, all edged in white.
They make as they greet the morn.
Could ever a love be so devoted and true.
Held here since all time was born.
As years go by many broods will be raised.
As these ageing swans stay side by side.
Dancing the ballet of their one true love.
To dream silent airs as they glide.
Simon Edge took this photo a few days ago.