Volunteers form 'Swan Patrol' to safeguard swans crossing busy road in Bishop's Waltham
The 11 volunteers work in shifts, assisting five cygnets and two adults in safely navigating the traffic on the B2177
Volunteers in Bishop's Waltham have taken the initiative to protect a group of swans that were risking their lives trying to cross a busy road.
Following the deaths of two cygnets which were hit by cars, a dedicated group called 'Swan Patrol' was formed.
The 11 volunteers work in shifts, assisting the remaining five cygnets and two adults in safely navigating the traffic on the B2177.
They stop cars, ensuring the swans cross the road unharmed.
This effort started in September, prompted by the swans' frequent attempts to cross Winchester Road, driven by the presence of ponds on either side.
Originally, there were seven cygnets, but three of them were injured or killed in car accidents.
The volunteers' commitment has been crucial in protecting the swans and preventing further accidents.
One of those volunteers is Linda Davis: "The road has got busier and they get run over. The majority of people are careful but some people speed.
"There are two ponds north and south so obviously they cross between the two.
"It's getting more difficult because they're separating so they're not always going together; so they're on the side of the road, then one might go and then the others. It is lovely.