Twelve swans shot on the River Thames in a brutal bout of animal cruelty within a stone's throw of Windsor Castle

* Warning this article contains upsetting images**

Twelve swans have been shot on the River Thames in a brutal bout of animal cruelty within a stone's throw of Windsor Castle.

Two had to be put down after they were shot in the head, according a rescue and treatment centre called Swan Support.

Eight were blasted with an air rifle shot on January 29 while a further four were shot on January 24.

The first four birds were all shot in the eye.

A month ago a swan was found battered to death in Barry Avenue, a short distance away.

A month before that three birds were shot on the same stretch of river, the Windsor Observer reported.

• Information to police about any attacks on river birds by call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.