A pair of swans are receiving a new lease of life at Sale Water Park after the contamination of a lake at a country park turned them pink.

The RSPCA said the two swans were spotted by members of the public at Moses Gate Country Park in Farnworth, Bolton, last month.

The charity said the contamination of a lake at the country park, caused by the breakdown of bread, turned them pink after it got onto their feathers in the form of a fungus.

Untreated the condition can cause a loss of waterproofing which leads to an inability to fly and an increase in the risk of of hypothermia.

Messenger Newspapers: The two swans were spotted at Moses Gate Country Park

Now the swans are receiving a new lease of life at Sale Water Park but the RSPCA asked members of the public to avoid bread and to feed them appropriately if at all.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Stephen Wickham said: "We know how much people enjoy feeding swans, ducks and geese, however it is important to make sure they are given the right food. Unfortunately bread fills them up without giving them the nutrients they need and it can affect their health.

"We would encourage people to offer them finely-chopped greens, such as cabbage, spinach and lettuce, as well as mixed corn, grain, wheat or bird seed. Any feeding should also be done in moderation and only as a supplement to their natural diet."

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.