£100 fine for feeding swans way over the top Huge thank you to clean-up helpers
IN spite of being warned by a Neighborhood Enforcement Officer, that by feeding the swans he was breaking the law, a 63-year-old wildlife-loving gentleman continued to do so.
This action of his not only cost him two on-the-spot fines of £50, but also brought about a visit from the police to Quinton Park, where this ‘crime’ was taking place.
Prior to this incident, swans had been seen wandering by the main road there, looking for food. Being concerned about their welfare, and that of motorists, this thoughtful gentleman contacted the RSPB to ask their advice. Although they were unaware of prohibition notices by the pool, experts there advised him to feed lettuce and grain to supplement the swans diet.
After reading this article in Friday’s Telegraph, I was left wondering if this upholder of the law would have taken similar action had they been walking past a fast food establishment, and was confronted by yobs kicking around chip containers or coffee cups – as they sometimes do.
Would they have called for police back-up? And would they even have bothered to turn out?
Surely some sort of discretion should be exercised by the authorities in a case such as this?
After all, there was no ill intent, and this gentleman’s only concern was the safety of others. To give him a £100 fine is way over the top. Peter Surtees Bedworth Warwickshire The Coundon Wedge clean-up in hedges. This man should get a public apology and be cleared of this stupid fine.
Some robbers get much lighter fines than this. Show some compassion like the gentleman. N P Kane Walsgrave Coventry WE would like to send a huge thank you to the many local residents who took part in the first Coundon Wedge Clean Up action day at the weekend.
Despite the cold weather, we were absolutely overwhelmed by the response we received and it was lovely to see so many people come together and help tidy up this treasured area.
Along with metal railings, bike frames and even a mini scooter, a huge amount of litter and debris was recovered from the River Sherbourne and the surrounding areas and needless to say, a large part of the Wedge is now looking much cleaner and tidier. The day was such a success that we hope to hold a similar event later in the year.
Although there are far too many people to mention individually, we wish to extend our appreciation to every person who volunteered their time and made a real difference.
Thank you for proving that community spirit is alive and well! Matthew Batson, Glenn Hartwell and Cllr Glenn Williams The Coundon Wedge Clean Up