OFFICERS from the RSPCA and Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service were tonight trying to rescue a swan covered in oil in Westbury.

The bird, which is protected by the Queen, was found in a distressed state on a small lake off Mane Way in Westbury earlier this evening.

An eye-witness said: “This is what happens to a swan when someone puts oil in a lake.

“The RSPCA are on site and have called the fire service as the swan wouldn’t come out.”

It is understood that yobs have lobbed cans and bottles in the lake and have cut down nearby trees.

The Queen has a royal prerogative over all swans in England and Wales and they are protected by the Crown under law.