A snapshot of one of those idyllic moments when the blue of the sky and the white plumage of a solitary swan are reflected in the still waters of Oulton Marsh. How different from those dark days in the 1940s when all that stood between dear 'Old Blighty' and wave after wave of incoming swans was the RAF's crack Swan Squadron based at 'Biggun Hill'.
On International Swan Day 2021 we should all observe a moment of reverent silence in respect for those brave boys in blue who stood tall in the face of overwhelming odds with only a case of light ale, six stubby Joe Coral pencils and a bag of stale breadcrumbs with which to defend themselves - The RAFs crack Swan Squadron.
March 03 is, coincidentally, the birthday of the late Joe Roberts . Joe was an exceptionally modest man who never discussed his national service in public but I believe that he did his bit when the call came. He also favoured 'cross win doubles' , Birds Superwhip, 'holding the bells' and the 'feature' on the 'fruity'. Truly a legend amongst swans and on the bowls rink!
On a darker note, the editorial team were intrigued to discover that Swans are a recurring theme in the work of tattooists, skin artists and those who are designated as "becoming".
On the 2nd of March, the swan editorial team was delighted to see the return of a pair of mating Swans to the calm waters of Oulton Broad and just in time for Swan Observance Day. Their prolonged absence has been truly 'troubling" and an ongoing concern for 'JP' of Pakefield.
We would like to thank Lulu from Milton for sending the following swan images from the upper reaches of the Thames. Joe would have really been intimidated "They've got a lot of bleedin' neck!"
Wherever you are in the world, have an exceptional Swan Observance Day 2021 but please stay safe and don't turn your back on any of the buggers!
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