RESIDENTS are urged to keep an eye on activity at Radipole Lake after swans were allegedly stolen.

A witness said they saw several people in waders loading swans in to the back of a van.

None of the local wildlife groups have moved any of the swans recently and there are concerns that the swans have been taken for their meat.

Mute swans are property of the Crown and there are hefty penalties for harming them.

Anyone guilty of injuring or killing a swan faces up to six months' imprisonment or a £5,000 fine.

"It is concerning," said Weymouth and Portland swan herd Derek Davey.

"The witness contacted the RSPB and said they saw several people in waders picking up the swans, putting them in the back of a van and driving away.

"It obviously wasn't me, it wasn't Abbotsbury or the RSPCA, so I am very worried.

"We have 25 swans and 17 cygnets- but they come and go, so it's hard to know what's actually happened.

"It's worrying in case they've been stolen and the people come back for more."

The Crown claimed ownership of all the mute swans in England and Wales in the 12th Century- it is thought primarily to stop the public depriving the royals of a favourite banqueting dish.

But nowadays the birds are no longer eaten - it is a criminal offence to harm a swan in any way - and the Queen still exercises her ownership of swans on certain stretches of the River Thames and its tributaries.

An annual count of these swans takes place every summer and is known as Swan Upping. The census highlights trends in the birds' health that are reflected across the count.

Mr Davey said one concern is that the swans are being stolen and sold because they are a delicacy in some cultures.

"I'd ask the public to keep an eye out," he added.

"If people see anything suspicious, I would ask that they please contact the police. It's better to be safe than sorry."

He added: "It would be very helpful if the person who reported the incident or anyone who has information could contact RSPB centre Weymouth on 01305 778313.

"In addition, if anyone notices anything suspicious, for example birds being taken or carried from the lake, they need to contact the police."

The incident happened on Tuesday, August 18.