SIXTEEN oil-soaked swans spawned a partnership that celebrates its 17th anniversary this week.

A tanker spill on December 8th, 1988, left Neyland and Llanstadwell beaches under a thick blanket of oil.

Residents and National Park representatives rescued the swans trapped behind the Church Lakes spit.

"The swans' feathers were becoming browner as they ploughed through thick slime to avoid capture," said Lois Tavener.

When the last swan was caught, it was a deep creosote colour and the chemicals caused tears to stream from its eyes.

Lois and her husband Peter were so moved, they travelled to Jean and Alan Bryant's New Quay Bird and Wildlife Hospital to check on the birds' progress.

They were astounded to learn the hospital was run almost entirely on Alan's pension.

The Taveners, and fellow Llanstadwell resident Betty Wainwright were inspired to begin fundraising for what was then the only facility in the area.

They helped release the 12 surviving birds at Church Lakes in April the following year.

Both Jean and Lois have since been widowed, but both women have continued their work.

Jean, now 81, still runs the New Quay hospital, assisted by her son Hugh, despite severe arthritis.

Lois and Betty continue to raise money through coffee mornings on the second Thursday of each month at Neyland town hall, with raffles and bric-a-brac stalls between 9.30am and midday.

Neyland's Shirley Cummings became involved around five years ago. She said the mornings were a meeting point as well as a way of raising an average of £80 to £90 a time.

Anybody wanting more information on the New Quay Bird and Wildlife Hospital, or on local fundraising, can contact Lois Tavener on 01646 600502.