Cygnets swanning around in Stafford
This idyllic family scene in Staffordshire prompted plenty of 'aahs' from watching families taking advantage of the soaring temperatures.
Seven cygnets were spotted in water off the Kingsway in Castlefields, Stafford.
The adult swan was doting on the youngsters, which were happily hopping around the waterside.
Swans have been a fixture at the site for years but visitors were surprised to see the little grey balls of feathers.
They attracted plenty of attention, with the families gathering to watch the scene unfold.
Temperatures reached 24C (75F) at the weekend as summer arrived.
Beauty spots across the area were packed.
But the good weather was short-lived as showers arrived and temperatures dropped later in the week.
Swans normally mate anytime from spring through to summer, with the cygnets usually born between May and July.
They can hatch up to 10 eggs at a time, although some will not survive.
