AN investigation has been launched after a swan and one of its babies was beaten to death.

The male swan and one of the cygnets were "beaten to death with paddles by two men fishing from inflatables" on the Hoe Mill stretch of the River Chelmer, IWA Essex Waterways has said.

A spokesman said: "Please if you see anyone harming or attempting to harm any wildlife on the water call the office at Paper Mill Lock on 01245226245.

"Give a description and location of the incident, all calls will be treated as confidential.

"Together we can protect our waterway and its wildlife."

All that remains of the family of swans is the mother and her two cygnets.

Intentionally killing, injuring, or taking a wild swan without a license is an offense under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

The maximum penalty for a conviction is six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

Killing or injuring a swan could also be considered criminal damage or a wildlife-related offense.