An injured swan had a police guard before animal rescue workers could take it away for treatment.

Youths were stopped by the officers when they were caught throwing stones and spitting at the bird.

PC Andy Ledger and police community support officer Alex Smith were on duty in Rochester when they were alerted to the swan’s plight.

Police spokesman Jon Green said: “They went to investigate and were told some youngsters were causing it distress.

“Therefore the officers stayed on duty in the vicinity until an expert help came to tend to it.”

Lorraine St John (pictured left), of Kent Wildlife Rescue Service, said the female adult swan was weak, malnourished and had cut webbing.

It is thought she could have been bullied by other swans.

Mum Sue Horne saw the swan. She said: “It was upsetting. She was very dirty and dishevelled and could not stand.”

Lorraine said: “She was just curled up on the steps by the river and there were a lot of people around her. Some boys were spitting at her.”

Lorraine eventually transported the swan back to her mini animal sanctuary.
The swan will be returned to the same spot if she makes a full recovery.