ANIMAL welfare experts are appealing for help after a horrifying crossbow attack on a pair of geese in Caversham.

A rescue team from Swan Support scoured the area between Christchurch and Reading Bridge all weekend after receiving reports that a bird had been shot.

They found one dead Canada Goose and another with a crossbow arrow, which had gone through its body.

The injured animal was rushed to hospital with the help of the Caversham Boat Service.

Wendy Hermon, from Swan Support said: "This is the first time I have seen an attack like this in Reading in all the time I have been with Swan Support.

Reading Chronicle:

"We are going to pick it up from the vets as soon as possible, but we have not reported it to the police yet.

"The worrying thing is that people are walking around in a public place with a weapon that could kill a human."

The injured goose is being looked after by the team at Alma Vets in Slough and it is hoped that the animal will make a full recovery.

Wendy added: "The crossbow bolt has gone right through the body. It is very dangerous.

"They were both recovered from the same area. We found them in Caversham near Christchurch Bridge.

"We had the call on Friday evening and we have been out every single day since, but we struggled to find it.

Reading Chronicle:

"We would like to say a big thanks to the Caversham Boat Service, as we would not have found it without them. The river has been very dangerous lately.

"They were part of a pair so it it very sad. They must think that this is fun or sport, but they can't do anything to get out of the way or defend themselves.

"I just don't understand why some people think it is acceptable to harm animals for fun."