THERE was sadness among villagers and visitors to Polperro this week after news filtered through that a popular feathered visitor to the village had died.

Freda the swan was well-loved by residents and tourists alike, and many grew accustomed to seeing her on the inner harbour and quayside.

In recent weeks there had been concerns about a lump on the swan’s neck, and on Monday it was confirmed that the RSPCA vet had taken the difficult decision to put her to sleep.

‘Freda will be much missed by us all,’ said one Polperro resident.

‘I sincerely hope Polperro will acquire another pair of swans to grace the harbour in months or years to come.’