Residents in Astley Village were delighted when a female duck had seven ducklings at Buckshaw pond.

But one duckling has already been killed presumably by a fox or cat and now the mother has also been killed.

Now residents fear it is only a matter of time before the remaining six ducklings die and want something done.

Astley Village councillor Mark Perks said he was contacted by a concerned resident for help in protecting the ducklings.

The resident, who asked not to be named, said that when the first duckling was killed, the mother and other ducklings wouldn't settle on the banks for quite some time afterwards.

She said: "Unfortunately this weekend the mother duck has been killed, leaving six orphaned ducklings, although the ducklings are getting bigger they seem unable to fly and are visibly frightened of coming out of the water or approaching the banking around the pond.

"Mallard ducks do not migrate for the winter from the UK and as these seem unable to fly and are still vunerable it is likely they will stay where they are - remaining at risk from the foxes, cats, possibly children and the looming winter.

"We are hoping that by some miracle the ducks will find somewhere at the pond to rest safely but it seems unlikely, but to lose the ducks would be a great loss to many in the area."

Coun Perks said he had been watching the progress of the ducklings along with many residents living near the pond, which is maintained by housing association Places for People.

He said: "Despite the elements, and certain individuals, these ducklings had been survivors - now the mother has been killed it is only a matter of time before they all die.

"I fear if an animal rescue charity does not get involved, these six remaining ducklings will not survive. Any support would be most appreciated, we need to act quickly."