Two swans were shot in the head in what is thought to have been a 'shooting for sport' air rifle attack at Wimblington, near March.

The RSPCA is appealing for information after the swans were shot. One died but the other had what they believed were superficial injuries and was able to fly away.

RSPCA inspector Richard Lythgoe said: 'This was a horrible incident which resulted in the death of one bird and a second having a lucky escape.

'It appears to have been done in the interests of so called 'sport' but was completely needless and cruel.'

The RSPCA were called on Saturday February 28 after a member of the public found the birds in a dyke off Horsemoor Road, Wimblington.

It is thought they may have been shot with an air rifle on Friday night.

•Anyone with information should call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.