WESTBURY’S infamous goose, known fondly as Gary, has been rescued by the RSPCA after years of causing havoc on the road near his home on Station Pond.
Troublesome Gary, who is thought to have been abandoned alongside another goose around three years ago when he was released onto the pond near Station Road, had a number of near misses with traffic, which prompted concerned residents to contact the animal welfare charity.
The fences surrounding the lake where Gary previously lived had deteriorated, allowing him to wander out onto the busy road, where he risked his safety and the safety of motorists.
RSPCA inspector Miranda Albinson who gave Gary a helping hand said, “Gary is absolutely fine. He is currently at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, but will be going to a new lake with his new friends sometime this week. He will be returning to Westbury, but to hopefully a much safer location.”
In response to the departure of Westbury’s much-loved goose from Station Pond, locals have taken to social media to express their relief that Gary is now safe.
On the ‘Spotted Westbury’ Facebook page Kathryn Scarlett said, “I was constantly worried about him, as he is so adorable! I’m glad he is ok and will shortly be back in town.”
“Lovely to see Gary has settled in well. We will miss him near the roundabout by the lake but a much safer home for him now,” added Lynn Bohana.
“Glad he is away somewhere safe. He has certainly been causing havoc the past week or two,” agreed Deb Samwa.
Roz Poynter said, “Aww bless him. (I) was worried about him when he used to stand in the middle of the roundabout telling the drivers off. Good luck in your new home, we will miss you.”
“Westbury has lost its only celebrity,” cried Nathan Drewett.
But one Westbury resident shared a concern that this isn’t the last Station Road has seen of Gary. Tiz Wheeler Wemyss said, “They’ve moved him several times and he always finds his way back to Station Pond. It won’t be long before he’s causing havoc there again. Watch this space.”
PICTURE: Gary the goose with RSPCA inspector Miranda Albinson.
Gary making friends in his temporary home at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.
