A YOUNG swan has been left partially blinded after being shot near Reading yesterday morning (October 14).

Charity Swan Support confirmed the news, saying that the animal was hit in the head by an air weapon.

READ MORE: 'We need this place': HUNDREDS sign petition to save beloved pub

A statement on the charity’s Facebook page reads: "He was rescued from the river in Purley on Thames near Reading early this morning.

"The cygnet is still alive but may have lost the sight of his left eye.

“He would have been in a lot of distress after this incident, he should have been with his parents as he is a very young and small cygnet for this time of year but sadly he was on his own.

READ MORE: Covid cases rise by 23 in Reading in 24 hours

“Please if anyone see any suspicious behaviour in or around the area of Mapledurham in the last 48 hours please call Thames Valley Police on 101 quoting reference number: INC-20201014-1308.”