'Sick' attackers decapitate swan

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Thugs who decapitated a swan in a "sickening and barbaric" attack are being hunted by police.

The remains of the male swan were found on Monday at Fleet Pond, near Fleet in Hampshire, by a passer-by.

Police say the swan was held down "with some degree of force" before a knife was used to decapitate it.

"To kill a large swan would have taken considerable effort - the person responsible would have been splattered in blood," said Pc Stacey Beale.

'Beautiful animal'

The wildlife crime officer for Hampshire police added that the swan's neck had been held over a raised wooden edge by the pond.

"A knife or sharp, bladed article had then been used to cut through his neck. Judging by the marks left on the wood, this would have required some degree of force," Pc Beale added.

"We are determined to find those responsible for this sickening act."

Steven Lyons, Hart District Council's wildlife ranger, said: "This was a cruel, barbaric act and it is ridiculous that someone would do this to such a beautiful animal."