RESIDENTS are in mourning after three well-loved swans perished in what appears to have been a freak accident.

Members of Maldon District Council’s Countryside and Coast team discovered three dead swans near Hythe Quay on October 11.

It is understood from witness reports that the swans were coming into land on the River Blackwater but were caught by the wind, and collided with each other and then into some of the vessels near the quay and the quay itself.

Unfortunately, three of the birds died, the fourth appears to have been unharmed.

Many residents have been deeply saddened by the loss, as the swans have previously been a target for predators, including foxes.

Lisa Cullumbine believes the swans need more protection.

She said: “Many people in Maldon have been and still are concerned about the environment for these beautiful birds.

“Was it a freak accident or manmade disaster waiting to happen? Is the lake too small for the birds to take off and land safely? Is the perimeter fence a dangerous hindrance?

“They can only nest on the edge of the lake which again is not suitable for their size open to predators.”

Richard Holmes, Director for Community Services at Maldon District Council, said: “We can advise that our Countryside and Coast Team did find three deceased swans near the Hythe Quay and Promenade Park. The swans appear to be the group who have been living on the Promenade Lake in the park.

“Two of the swans were young and perhaps inexperienced.

“Although unusual and upsetting, swans are wild animals and sometimes things happen that we have no control over.”