Stark evidence of the damage discarded hooks and fishing line can do to wildlife was demonstrated yesterday when a volunteer rescue boat crew was called out to retrieve a swan in agony on Bridgwater canal, Somerset.

The distressed bird had partially swallowed a hook and line. Secret World wildlife rescue at East Huntspill was alerted and called in Burnham-on-Sea Rescue Boat.

The bird has been taken to a vet for emergency care.