THE peace and tranquillity of a beautiful sunny morning on the riverbank opposite the Captain Cabin restaurant in Christchurch was shattered by the thoughtless and totally irresponsible behaviour of two women, their very young offspring and dog off it’s lead.

The adults showed complete disregard as their children and pet tormented a group of swans that had mistakenly gathered in search of food.

Not only did the dog run at and chase the birds on land but also pursued them in the water.

It was only after a verbal rebuke from myself that the owner reluctantly brought her animal under control but at no time did she display any sense of urgency.

The youngsters, however, continued to entice the swans back where they then became the victims of stone throwing.

Sickening as this intolerable behaviour was, the indifference demonstrated by other onlookers and several passers-by was equally disturbing.

Sadly yet another turn a blind eye, don’t get involved episode so prevalent in society nowadays.

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