A FAMILY of swans have been safely relocated to the River Derwent.

The swans nest at Beck Mills, off Welham Road, Norton, each year and once the cygnets have hatched, make their way to the river.

Jean Thorpe, of the Ryedale Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, based in Norton, has helped with the relocation for a number of years.

She said: "I worry they will get knocked over and have moved them to the river for the last few years.

"The first time I put them back on Beck Mills, but the following day they were out again down the road amongst the big lorries, racehorses and school children, so now I follow their lead and when they move out I give them a hand with transport."

This year the swan family had meandered along St Nicholas Street, Langton Road and then onto Wood Street.

Jean said: "The kind people of Wood street ushered them along to the new houses and car park and kept watch till I got there.

"They were soon caught up and in the back of the car.

"We called in to Beck Mils and managed to catch the male and all were reunited in the back of the car.

"Then onto river fields with the help of Helen Martindale RSPCA ACO, back onto the water and they all sailed off satisfactorily up The River Derwent.

"Every year they leave their nest site at Beck Mills and try very hard to get to the river, but their way is blocked now by flood defences, the railway line and busy roads.

"So every year someone rings me and I go and gather them up, as they are determined to get to the river.

"It is lovely that so many people look out for them in Norton."