The Park Manager of Richmond Park tonight described the kicking of the cygnet by a passing jogger as "disgusting."

Simon Richards said: "There is no justification for this disgusting behaviour. The cygnet was a week old and has ended up with a broken neck, and only a very slim chance of making it.

"We thank the kind visitors for rescuing this cygnet and the Swan Sanctuary for caring for it and hope the police will bring justice to the person who carried out this cruel action."