Bolton councillors have heard disturbing reports of recent abuse of wild water birds at Moses Gate Country Park, including children hitting swans with sticks and leaving harmful food such as doner kebabs and spicy wedges.
Debate on Animal Welfare Charter
On Wednesday, the full council debated a motion proposed by Councillor Debbie Newall to adopt an animal welfare charter, committing the authority to protecting animals. The motion, supported by councillors, affirms a whole-council approach to animal welfare across multiple service areas.
Reports of Swan Abuse
During the debate, Farnworth Reform councillor Sue Haworth updated members on recent incidents. She said: "One volunteer report for May 2026 said that school age children were taunting or hitting a swan with sticks, and one swan was pushed or thrown. This was reported to the police. The volunteer found a dead swan, saying it had neck injuries."
Volunteers also reported that around 25 eggs were missing from swans' nests in the park. Councillor Haworth described this as "crime by people in the park."
Inappropriate Food Left for Wildlife
Councillor Haworth added that volunteers had reported inappropriate food left in the park that could harm birds. She said: "Disgusting food keeps being left like doner kebab for swans, ripped bags of spicy wedges, rice, chicken with bones and sauce, all left for the waterfowl at our park. Such food is also thrown into the water. This food can kill the wildlife."
She noted that residents in Farnworth and visitors demand appropriate police and council action.
Anti-Social Behaviour at Bird Hide
At the bird hide used for birdwatching, there was evidence of anti-social behaviour and crime. Councillor Haworth reported: "There's vandalism with parts of benches and seats thrown into the river Croal, there's graffiti, charring from fires and strong smelling urine."
Support from Fellow Councillors
Labour member Liam Barnard expressed agreement, saying: "I do agree with you councillor Haworth, being a representative in Little Lever, Moses Gate is very close to my heart. Residents of my ward have very similar concerns."
