Swan pictured waiting patiently at high street level crossing

Shoppers at a busy city centre got a surprise after a swan was seen waiting patiently for a train at a level crossing.

The bird was spotted waiting quietly for a couple of minutes until the barriers opened. It had earlier been seen strolling down the high street shops.

Onlooker David Burton said saw the animal calmly staring into space as it waited for the barriers to move, and grabbed his phone to take a picture.

Swans can often be seen on the Brayford waterfront in Lincoln, and have historic associations to the city.

Bishop Hugh, who was appointed to oversee building work at Lincoln Cathedral in the 12th Century, was famous for having a white swan follow him around.

Lesley Williams, from St Barnabas hospice, said the swans have become locals in the town centre.

Despite their antics, animal expert and former zoo keeper has Tony Butler warned of the dangers of swans in the city.