A JUVENILE has been released and is on police bail following an "appalling incident of cruelty" involving three swans in Rhyl.

Stones were thrown at the birds during the incident at a lagoon at Rhyl Golf Club on Sunday, May 2.

One swan was killed and two were injured.

CCTV footage showed two young males in the area at about 8pm.

A spokesperson for the police said: "Officers arrested a juvenile male from the Rhyl area in connection to the cruelty to swans incident reported to us on Monday.

"Further inquiries are ongoing, and we are doing everything we can to trace the other male involved."

Inspector Chris Jolley termed the incident as “an appalling incident of cruelty.”

He added: “We are working directly with the RSPCA and urge anyone who may be able to assist with our ongoing investigation to come forward."

Police are actively seeking a second juvenile.

People have been asked not to share names or photographs / videos on social media due to legal proceedings now being active.

North Wales Police's rural crime team tweeted: "Quite rightly this weekend has questioned the behaviour of certain parts of our society.

"However the vast majority of our society are good people, who are passionate for our wildlife and beauty."

A spokesperson from RSPCA Cymru said: "We are aware of this terrible and upsetting incident and are assisting the North Wales Police who are leading on the investigation. 

"If anyone has any further information, they should contact the police.

“To report concerns about animals please call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.”

The two other swans involved in the incident are still on the pond. 

The RSPCA say they appeared to be "uninjured but are being monitored."

Anyone with information about the incident should call 101.