Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Kris Gourlay

East Lothian drivers astonished after pair of cheeky swans bring traffic to a halt

An East Lothian woman has captured a video of two swans wandering beyond their natural habitat and roaming the streets, as drivers began to pile up behind them.

The hilarious video was recorded by Heather Morrissey in Musselburgh as swans fleeing from the River Esk is a common theme in the town, with drivers often getting caught up in the ordeal.

Heather witnessed two swans wandering along the streets in Millhill, Musselburgh on Friday afternoon, appearing to be intrigued by their new surroundings.

READ MORE: New Edinburgh Jenners images show revamp plans including boutique hotel and bar

Behind them, a group of drivers attempting to drive along the street were held up behind the animals and had to wait until they had cleared the road before moving slowly through.

In what is becoming a re-occurring theme of swans going for a little wander in Musselburgh, there is never a shortage of spectators to capture the hilarity.

Heather noted that this was the first time she had witnessed the swans venturing from the water and roaming the streets, saying: "Normally the swans are walking about the grassy area next to the River Esk but this was the first time I saw them taking a wander along the road.

"Thankfully, all the drivers were careful and understanding and a passer by guided the swans off the road and back to safety."

With locals now aware that an afternoon walk past the River Esk may result in turning into a swan whisperer, it's refreshing to see people finding the funny side of things and always being on hand to avoid any danger to the animals.

With the River undergoing major work from both SEPA and and East Lothian Council to tackle the pollution problem that has affected swans and other animals in the area, the big birds may have been out scouting around for a new place to migrate for a little while.

Generous contributions from locals since the river was subject to pollution in recent weeks has involved some going above and beyond to look after and feed swans in the area.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.