By David Green

AN animal-loving Bolton postman who came under fire from yobs with air rifles while trying to protect three injured swans has spoken of his lucky escape.

Phil Wyatt, aged 33, of Breightmet, narrowly avoided injury after coming under fire when he rushed to the aid of the stricken birds at Starmount Lodges, Radcliffe.

He saw the youths shoot the birds as he took his dog for a walk with a friend at the beauty spot on Saturday afternoon.

Two birds -- a cygnet and an adult swan -- died later as a result while a third was badly injured.

Mr Wyatt, who is married and is a self-confessed animal lover with a pet cat and dog, said he was angry about the attack.

"I would like to find out who these lads were and sort them out. You couldn't print what I think of them," he said.

He saw them shoot the birds and rang the police and the RSPCA. He then went back to check on the swans to see if they were all right while his friend tried to ring the RSPCA from home.

"I saw the one bird had a hole in its neck from one of the pellets and I rang the RSPCA on my mobile phone.

"While I was waiting for them to answer I saw the youths aim the gun at me and then I heard the pellet hit the ground a foot away from me. The four lads then made off."

Terrible

Police are hunting for the youths responsible. One is said to have been wearing a red top.

Sgt Jim Nisbet, Bolton wildlife officer, said: "We would appeal for anyone with information to contact us to help catch those people responsible for this terrible act."

If the youths are caught, they could face a fine of up to £1,000 for each swan killed.

Anyone with information should ring either Bury's wildlife officer Pc Roy Hodkinson on 0161 856 8223 or Sgt Nisbet on 0161 856 5722.