Council cordon off Town Gardens pond after unexpected arrivals

A popular pond at Swindon's Town Gardens has been cordoned off to the public after some unexpected visitors arrived overnight.

Many residents strolling through the park on Wednesday morning rushed over to the cordoned area to see what had happened but were met with a pleasant surprise.

A family of ducks and ducklings has moved into the popular pond, and South Swindon Parish Council are determined to keep them safe from passing dogs and overly curious members of the public.

"I couldn't believe it when I was passing through the park this morning and saw them," one passerby told the Adver.

"They're so unbelievably tiny.

"It's amazing that the people running the park are working so hard to keep them safe and protected."

Another resident added: "I was a bit concerned when I saw the area all cornered off at first and I was worried someone had damaged the pond or something. But what a lovely surprise."

As well as condoning off the pond area, next to the park's aviary, the council has also installed a small ramp to allow the ducklings to get safely in and out of the water.

A ramp has been installed to help the ducklings in and out of the water. (Image: Newsquest)

"While we're excited that a group of ducks and ducklings have chosen to make the Town Gardens their home, we would like to remind park users to always have their dog on a short lead while in the park," said a spokesperson for South Swindon Parish Council.

"This is a local bylaw and we would appreciate residents respecting this rule.

"We also ask residents not to feed the ducks or drop food in the pond," the council added.

"Our gardeners will make sure that they are properly fed and any excess material in the pond will pollute the water."

Dozens of ducklings have flooded the town pond. (Image: Newsquest)

The Town Gardens in Old Town has seen more visitors than usual in recent weeks after the park was named the most popular cherry blossom location in the UK.

The Town Gardens fought off tough competition in a study by travel experts LateRooms.com including Greenwich Park in London which came second, and Wavertree Botanic Garden which came third.

Families and social media lovers have flocked to pose in front of the cherry blossoms so much that South Swindon Parish Council has had to put out a warning asking visitors not to shake the blossom trees for their photos.

"They are here for everyone, please respect the trees," the council notice said.