FEARS are growing for the two young Black Swan cygnets in Dawlish.

It is believed the youngsters may have been swept away during heavy rain overnight on Friday.

The pair have not been seen since early on Saturday morning.

A spokesman for Dawlish Waterfowl Wardens said: ‘We are saddened to report that the two cygnets have been missing since Saturday morning.

‘They were last seen on Friday evening at Tucks Plot.

‘With the recent inclement weather, the brook has been very fast-flowing, which may have affected their movements.

‘If you are out and about and happen to see them, please let us know by telephoning 01626 863388 or by emailing [email protected].'

Concerns had been raised over the weekend after there was no sign of the weeks old cygnets although their parents Bert and Kimba were visible.

The heavy rain had already washed away their old nest in the middle of the Brook.

There is a remote possibility they could be hiding somewhere but the area has been checked thoroughly so it is believed they didn’t survive the bad weather.

They were seen at about midnight on Friday and had been swimming in the Brook but made it to shelter on the purpose built island in the middle of the water.

The Brook was described as a ‘torrent’ and it is thought they may have been hungry and taken to the water which then swept them away.

Residents and Black Swan lovers have been devastated by the news.

One said: ‘Can’t believe it. This is a real shock. They seemed to get through so much bad weather already when they were much smaller.’

Another added: ‘When we saw the brook like a torrent the other day we feared for their safety so very sad to hear this.’

Volunteers from WADE and the wardens had been keeping an eye on the water levels and the sluice gates had been opened to control the water levels.

Earlier on Friday the wardens had said how well they were doing and growing fast.