A West Sussex County Council officer has helped protect a nesting pair of swans and their young near Arundel Castle, following a swift response from councils and the local community.
The Network Compliance Officer was returning from a routine inspection when he noticed barriers blocking part of a public footpath. After stopping to investigate, he found that a pair of swans, named William and Catherine, had built a nest on the verge beside the path.
A local resident was already keeping watch over the swans to help protect them, and barriers had been put in place to discourage pedestrians and dogs from getting too close.
However, the officer noticed another problem. Drivers were stopping by the verge to take photos, which was unsettling the birds during a crucial stage of nesting.
He contacted Arun District Council, which responded by introducing a temporary parking suspension in the area to help create a safer environment for the swans.
The response came just in time. On the evening of 26 May 2026, the first egg hatched. By the early hours of the following morning, five healthy cygnets had arrived.
Councillor Erika Woodhurst-Trueman, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “This is a fantastic example of our officers going above and beyond in their day-to-day duties and of the positive difference that can be made when councils and communities work together.
“Protecting the natural environment is important to us and this heartwarming outcome demonstrates how even small actions can have a lasting impact on the wildlife and communities that make West Sussex such a special place.”
The officer said he felt privileged to have played a role in protecting the swans and supporting the local effort.
The cygnets are now becoming part of the local wetland landscape, adding to the natural beauty of the Arundel area.
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