Dozens of people gathered to feed Worcester’s swans at community events over the festive period, with a third planned for New Year’s Day.

The town’s Swan Food Project works year-round to support birds in their habitat on the River Severn and raise awareness about caring for them.

Those gathered at the festive feeding sessions are given bird-friendly food, attracting crowds of swans to the town’s South Embankment.

President and coordinator Marilyn McCarthy said the festive gatherings were “a thank you for the support that has been given over the year”.

Sunday’s event was the second of the season with better weather than the first on Boxing Day, which took place in fog.

“We’ve been too busy handing out food and talking to people to count them.

“It’s had good support – some people see it as part of their Christmas walk,” Ms McCarthy said.

As well as community feeding events, the project provides advice for people wishing to feed the swans at other times, including leftover Christmas vegetables.

“You want them to look for whatever food is available. They look for food, but obviously there’s a lot less in the winter.

“No one wants to see desperately hungry swans in the middle of our city,” Ms McCarthy added.

“We’re not trying to make them pets. You’re just trying to support them so they can live out their wild lives.”