THE bodies of two swans have been left to decompose in a Barrow reservoir after council staff reportedly claimed removing them was a health and safety issue.

The birds were discovered in Lower Ormsgill Reservoir near Schneider Road on Saturday, February 3 by a dog walker who immediately raised the alarm, concerned about the causes of death, and spread of disease.

Ruth Smith, of Prospect Road, said: "I just thought it was really odd that two of them were dead in the water.

"The council said they sent someone out but they were not able to recover them for health and safety.

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"I kept my dogs on a leash, because I didn't know if it was avian flu, or if a dog had got it or if it was seagulls."

A Barrow resident, who often walks his dog nearby, said he did not believe the injuries were suspicious or a risk but probably occurred as a result of 'a dominant male attacking its competitors'.

The man, who did not want to be named said it incident was typical for this time of year as mating season approaches and was nothing to worry about.

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Another issue raised by several locals at the scene was the increasing amount of rubbish being dumped around the reservoir.

An Asda shopping trolley could be seen in the water along with plastic bags and bottles.

One swan which was swimming in the water appeared to have a fishing line coming out of its beak and wrapped around it.

The incident has been reported to the RSPCA inspectorate and Barrow Borough council has been contacted for comment.