BIRD lovers are 'cautiously optimistic' after no further swans or geese have died in the past week at a marina in Cheshire West.

Since bird flu was confirmed by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), 67 geese and 18 swans have been lost.

Northwich mum Tanya Pickering, 50, raised the alarm on Christmas Day and now visits Winsford Marina every day with daughter Eloise, 21, to check on the health of the wildlife.

"Thankfully, we have not lost anymore in the past week," said Tanya, who belongs to Swanwatch UK.

Swans and cygnets at Winsford Marina before bird flu

Swans and cygnets at Winsford Marina before bird flu

"It is a very good sign so hopefully we are turning the corner with it now.

"We are cautiously optimistic.

"Winsford Marina is off the daily watch list now which is another positive."

The public is warned not pick up any dead or visibly sick birds and advised not to hand feed the swans and geese.

"People are thanking us for what we are doing for the birds," said Tanya.

Swans at Winsford Marina before bird flu was confirmed

Swans at Winsford Marina before bird flu was confirmed

"We now have 10 swans but only one cygnet. There are around 20 or so geese.

"We will continue to come down every day."