A swan savaged by a runaway dog is back in the water after being treated for an injured wing.

The cob, known as Charlie by wildlife volunteers, was attacked by a black lurcher at Barton's Point boating lake in Sheerness last Wednesday morning in full view of families.

It took the best part of a day for Ray Allibone of Swampy Wildlife Rescue and his volunteers to trap the swan, which had been protecting its mate and three cygnets, and then take it to Shepperton Swan Sanctuary 70 miles away where a vet battled to save its wing.

Mr Allibone didn't get back to his home in Sheerness until the early hours of Thursday morning. Charlie was allowed to return to the boating lake on Tuesday.

Mr Allibone said: "It is likely he will remain flightless until the tendons in his wing grow strong again."

On Friday Mr Allibone was given a surprise presentation of £130 from Mandy Bowyer of Sittingbourne supermarket Asda's night team to go towards his expenses. He said: "This was a much appreciated gesture."

The horror attack was witnessed by mum Mel George and her children. She said: "It was horrendous to see."

Among those who helped the swan was pensioner Tony Austen, 76, of Southsea Avenue, Minster. The retired engineer jumped into the lake fully clothed.

Mr Allibone said: "This was all because somebody didn't have the common sense to put their dog on a lead."

The lurcher was not on a lead or wearing a muzzle. Witnesses say it was being exercised by an unofficial dog-walker. Police were called.

Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here.

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