After unsuccessfully trying to rescue the swan from the banks of the River Team, in Low Team, Gateshead, RSPCA inspectors contacted crews from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service on Thursday morning.

Officers trained in swift-water rescue, from Fossway Community Fire Station, in Newcastle, were quickly on the scene and, along with RSPCA inspectors, waded in to the water and removed the swan from the river.

Sadly the swan had to be put down shortly afterwards, due to the severity of its broken wing injury.

RSPCA chief inspector Michelle Charlton said: "The firefighters were incredible and went well beyond the call of duty.

"In incidents like this, it is important to free an animal or bird as quickly as possible to ensure minimum distress is caused.
"Sadly, this particular incident did not have a happy outcome, which is a terrible shame.

"We always appreciate any help the fire service is able to offer and, indeed, in some circumstances we rely on them to do what we're not able to.

"Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service were invaluable yesterday and we're very grateful for their involvement."