POLICE have urged visitors to a nature reserve to keep their dogs on a lead after incidents of swans being attacked.

A police community support officer recently went on patrol along the Stour Way in Muscliffe with a ranger.

A spokesperson for Bournemouth Police said: "It was brought to PCSO Mike's attention that there had been recent incidents with some dog walkers where swans have been attacked by dogs due to the feeding of these lovely birds being encouraged out of the water on to the bank.

"Please respect them by keeping your dog on a lead when nearby. Thank you."

Signs have been placed along the Stour Way urging people to ensure the swans are not put in danger.

This includes giving them space by keeping dogs on leads and not feeding them.

Alongside the danger of potentially bringing the swangs in contact with dogs, food can cause problems as rotting bread pollutes the water, which affects fish and other aquatic life.