'Even our local wildlife can get caught out'

In one of the incidents earlier this month, visitors to the Carrickfergus dam raised the alarm after spotting one of the birds sliding over the overflow weir and becoming stuck.

Area manager, Maynard Cousley said: “We are delighted to welcome swans to the reservoir, but, like all our visitors, we want to keep them safe while they are there.

"NI Water has erected a chain type barrier across the overflow weir to stop the swans from sliding down and becoming trapped.

“This is a timely reminder to everyone that reservoirs can be dangerous places, and even our local wildlife can sometimes be caught out.

“Reservoirs can be much colder than they look and there are strong undercurrents which can trouble even the most confident of swimmers – ask the swans!

"Therefore, they are not safe for people to swim in. Hopefully the chain will allow the swans to enjoy the reservoir while also keeping safe at the same.”