A SWAN is recovering at a rescue centre today after it was dramatically saved after flying into power cables.

The badly injured bird was discovered by members of the public on Monday morning along the banks of the Selby Canal at Brayton.

Volunteers from the wildlife charity Yorkshire Swan Rescue Hospital at Brandsby, near York - the largest dedicated swan unit in northern England - were called to the suffering animal, and described the bird's injuries as one of the worst cases they have had to deal with.

Dan Sidley, co-founder of Yorkshire Swan Rescue Hospital, said: "Heavy fog and mist often renders power cables invisible to flying water birds, especially swans, and they are often horrifically injured like in this sad case.

"We must thank the members of the public who alerted us to the swan, and our quick reaction has brought him back on to the road of recovery."

The swan was immediately rushed to the charities veterinary surgeons for emergency treatment. A test has also confirmed high levels of lead in the animal's blood, caused by ingesting discarded anglers' lead. The bird has begun responding to his treatments and it is hoped he will return back to the wild once he has fully recovered.

Mr Sidley said accidents involving waterbirds and power lines could be easily avoided by placing reflective diverters on to power lines surrounding popular flight paths of birds. He said they would contact the local electricity board to advise how to avoid any further incidents as a matter of urgency.

The charity's volunteers - who rely solely on public donations - are currently caring for more than 40 swans. They have successfully rescued more than 170 of the birds in the last few months from all over the region. Anyone who is concerned about a swan, can phonethe charity, 24 hours a day, on 07763 424892.