Concerns over the future of Mistley’s swans

An Essex beauty spot is in danger of losing one of its main tourist attractions unless urgent action is taken. That’s according to some of the residents of Mistley near Manningtree. With six swans already killed this year on the road, they are calling for motorists to slow down. Others have been taken by the RSPCA due to poor health.

It comes at a time when the head of the charity Swan Watch has announced her retirement. Alex Smith has been feeding the swans every morning for 20 years. So far no one has come forward to take over her role and concerns are growing over the future of the swans.

A year ago there were around 300 swans at Mistley. The number is going down rapidly with 60 gone in just 12 months. More than 20 were killed on the roads.

Mistley Parish Council is now looking at putting an electronic sign up along the Walls to tell people when they are going over 30 mph, in the hope of getting motorists to slow down.

Although some believe the swans should still feed naturally, the days of feeding off the grain from the barges is long gone. Jenny and Ian say this is now a domestic herd that needs to be cared for.

If you think you could help feed the swans each morning then contact Swan Watch on 01206 397251