Coggeshall swans killed in attack to receive memorial bench

Denise Griffiths launched a fundraiser in January to raise money for an engraved memorial bench and safety measures, including a wildlife camera, to protect the animals after a cruel attack on a family of swans.

Flowers - A memorial for the swans (Image: Denise Griffiths)

Denise, a dog walker and pet sitter from Coggeshall, said: "Two adults and three cygnets were brutally killed in January. 

"I was heartbroken and wanted to do something that would remember our swan family, so I created a crowdfunding page."

Essex Police launched an investigation after residents were left feeling “physically sick” after the attack, but no arrests have been made so far.

Since the attack, two swans have been visiting the flowers in a box site and residents are keen to protect them from a repeat attack.Swans - a family of swans in Coggeshall (Image: Denise Griffiths)

Denise says she had an amazing response from the community and an artist, who donated funds by selling some of her paintings. 

The White Hart, a dog-friendly pub in Coggeshall, held a quiz and raffle to raise funds to create the memorial bench. 

"Small businesses from the area and individuals donated some wonderful prizes for the White Hart raffle and it was a huge success, raising over £700 just on that one event," Denise said.

"In total, we have raised £1773 which was incredible. 

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"I had a poll on our Facebook group and a design by Zwoods Creations was voted by far the best design.

"Zack has already received my commission to create the bench and matching planters for a memorial area by our river where the swans were killed."

The unveiling of the Coggeshall Swans Memorial Bench will take place on Friday, April 21, at 10am, near Grange Hill and has a well-known VIP in attendance. 

For more information go to the Coggeshall Swans Memorial Facebook page and to donate, visit crowdfunder.co.uk/p/coggeshall-swans-memorial.