THE rescue and rehabilitation of a much-loved Northwich swan has led to a supermarket donating more than £200 to an RSPCA wildlife centre in Nantwich.

The money was raised through Waitrose’s Community Matters scheme, where shoppers can choose how the supermarket splits a monthly £1,000 donation to three local charities by placing a green token into boxes.

As a result, £218 was raised for the RSPCA’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre.

The wildlife centre’s inclusion in the scheme was thanks to Northwich resident and Stapeley Grange supporter Charlotte Wardle, who became involved with the charity in June after the centre rehabilitated a well-known swan in Northwich who is known as Mabel.

Mabel was rescued from the River Weaver after being attacked by an animal. She had also been shot, was covered in mites and tested high for lead levels in her blood.

The odds weren’t in her favour, however after eight weeks of rehabilitation at Stapeley Grange, she was released back with her mate – named Albert – and their two cygnets, who are known as ‘the twins’.

Charlotte said: “I would like to thank the team at Waitrose for the continuing support in helping Mabel, Albert and the twins on the River Weaver.

“Waitrose kindly sent a hamper of wild bird and animal food to Stapeley when Mabel was first injured, together with a signed ‘get well soon’ card for her.

“The staff always ask how Mabel is when I visit the store.”

Lee Stewart, manager at Stapeley Grange, said: “We are very grateful for the support from Charlotte and the team at Waitrose.

“Mabel was very poorly when she came into our care but we did not give up on her and we’re so pleased that she is back with her mate and cygnets and is doing well.

“This kind donation from Waitrose will help us to continue rehabilitating the thousands of injured wildlife which come through our doors every year.”