SEDGEMOOR wildlife carers say everybody who donated towards a £26,000 reward fund to find those responsible for killing 43 swans on the Somerset Levels will probably get their money back.

Three local men, aged 45, 37, and 34, have been released on bail after being arrested last Tuesday on suspicion of criminal damage in connection with the police investigation into the deaths.

As reported in the Mercury, East Hunstpill animal charity Secret World launched a reward for information leading to a prosecution in connection with the killings, and donations were last week capped at £26,000.

However, Pauline Kidner, Secret World founder, believes the money will probably be returned due to the length of time it could take to bring any prosecution.

She said: “It could be anything between one and two years before it even goes to court and then there has to be a conviction.

“We are going to ringfence the money and after a period of time it may have to go back to the people who donated it all.”

The East Huntspill animal charity also revealed this week the royal swan marker from Buckingham Palace has been in touch to note his concerns and offer his assistance as swans are the Queen's property.

Insp Roger Tolley, of Burnham Police, praised his officers for their hard work and dedication during their investigation into the deaths.

He said: “When these types of incidents happen they really upset the community so we have shown we have responded professionally and properly.”