SHROPSHIRE Council has thanked volunteers for helping almost 1,500 toads in Ellesmere cross the road to head back to their breeding grounds.

Currently, toads are heading back to the Mere after hibernating over the winter.

Swan Hill is partially closed from 7pm until 7am each night to help toads cross the road and volunteers have been on hand to help the animals.

So far volunteers have helped 1,490 toads safely cross the road to reach their breeding ponds.

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A Shropshire Council spokesperson said: "Last week saw the first toads this year cross Swan Hill in Ellesmere as they head back to their breeding grounds after hibernation.

"Ellesmere Toad Patrol volunteers are on site each night to help the toads cross the road safely and last weekend they helped an incredible 1,490 toads back to their ponds.

"A big well done and thank you to all the volunteers.

Border Counties Advertizer:

"Swan Hill is partially closed from 7pm to 7am each night until the end of April to help the toads cross the road."