WIDNES police are mounting special patrols to prevent more killings of swans at Spike Island.

In August, up to 20 of the protected birds were slaughtered and now police have confirmed that 'a number' of swans were killed last month - the latest on November 30.

Nick Bailey, acting chief inspector for Halton, is determined to track down the culprits but is uncertain whether the same people who struck during summer are behind the latest killings.

He said: 'It is hard to say whether these latest incidents are connected with those in summer, but killing swans is a fairly peculiar act so we hope there are not lots of people doing this.

'We have been working with the wildlife and countryside officer since reports came in that these swans have been killed.

'This criminal act is an imprisonable offence and we are asking anyone with information to come forward.

'The number of swans killed is nowhere near the number killed in the summer. But we are putting measures in place to deter further incidents by putting CSO patrols into this area and we are gathering information.'

The methods used to kill the swans is the same as that earlier in the year when they were found beheaded and shot with air rifles.

For years, the swans at Spike Island have been a visitor attraction with families .

Residents have voiced concern at the dwindling population.

A Cheshire police spokesman said: 'There have been incidents on November 3 and on November 30, on both occasions a number of swans have been shot or decapitated. We have launched an investigation into the matter and are appealing for witnesses to assist in tracing the offenders.'

Witnesses or anyone with information can call the neighbour-hood policing unit on 0845 458 383 or Martin Finlow on 0845 458 0000, or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.