Last updated: 04/10/2018, 10:16 AM

Firefighters rescue swans stuck in Tottenham lock

13/10/2015 16:05
Tower Hamlets
Rescue
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The Swan Sanctuary called the Brigade after two swans got their heads stuck in gates at Tottenham Lock yesterday afternoon.

The swans had been in the water for sometime and were distressed and tired.

Watch Manager Mike Cotton said:

“When crews arrived we found two swans had got themselves into the a part of the Lock and couldn’t find their way out. They had tried to escape but had got each of them had got their heads stuck in either end of the gate.

“Fire crews using inflatable boats got onto the water and it took about 10 minutes to release each bird. They were ok but distressed and tired. There is no way the swans would have freed themselves without our assistance. Our attendance also prevented any well meaning member of the public from putting themselves at risk.”

The Brigade was called at 1605 and the incident was over at 1750.

Call the RSCPA first

London Fire Brigade spokesperson added:

"If an animal is injured or in distress please call the RSPCA's 24 hour helpline on 0300 1234 999 or go to rspca.org.uk first. We’ll attend like in this case if the RSCPA need our specialist equipment."