Taffs Mead Embankment in Cardiff has two sets of residents. There are the people who live in the houses overlooking the River Taff, and then residents of an entirely different species altogether - the swans that inhabit the embankment itself. From slowing down the traffic on the road to inspiring artists, the swans have a number of roles in the community.
They are a regular sight for those who live, walk, and park along the embankment. Gathering in large numbers around the riverbank, they can often be spotted taking advantage of food from passers-by. For those who live along the riverbank, they've become co-habitants and much-loved members of the community.
Illustrator Derek Bainton, 50, has lived on the embankment for 10 years, and the swans have provided inspiration for some of his artwork. "I used to live down the docks and would walk up the river to get the train to work," he said.
