Swan on M4 causes traffic chaos in ‘Hot Fuzz’ moment

In scenes reminiscent of the movie 'Hot Fuzz', Wiltshire Police's road policing unit had to swoop in to rescue a swan that was causing traffic jams on the M4. The bird was safely removed from the busy motorway after it decided to take a wander across the lanes, leading to significant tailbacks. Traffic reports confirmed: "Traffic easing, animals in the road earlier on M4 both ways from J16 A3182 Hay Lane (Swindon West) to J15 A419 Marlborough Road (Swindon East)."

Authorities took a light-hearted tone in their response, with Wiltshire Police adding, "It's just the one swan actually. RPU [Road Policing Unit] collected this swan from the M4 and released it somewhere more suitable." They humorously noted, "It perfectly matched the detailed description from the member of the public (It's a swan)."

Statistics from The Mammal Society indicate that approximately 300,000 animals are killed on UK roads every year, pointing out that amongst major motorways, the M5 is particularly perilous for wildlife.

Hedgehogs are among the most affected, with an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 becoming road casualties annually from a population of around 600,000.

To highlight this issue, World Animal Road Accident Awareness Day takes place on October 10, aiming to raise awareness about the growing number of animals fatally struck by vehicles or injured on roads.