The owner of a dog that killed one of the town's black swans is 'utterly distraught', Dawlish Town Council has said.

It comes after it was announced yesterday (Monday 21 February) that the male swan of the pair that had nested and laid eggs at Tuck's Plot had been killed.

The dog was reportedly 'on a short lead in the dark', and the owner tried to stop the 'unforeseen occurrence' from happening.

The owner then advised the wardens immediately afterwards.

The town council has asked people to be mindful of comments they make on social media.

A Dawlish Town Council spokesperson said: "The dog owner involved in the swan death is utterly distraught by what has occurred.

"The dog was on a short lead in the dark and it was an unforeseen occurrence which they tried to stop.

"The owner advised the wardens straighten after it happened.

"We are aware that some postings on Facebook about the owner are not appropriate and ask people to be mindful of their comments, no matter how much they love our beautiful waterfowl."