The "rotting corpse" of a deer has been left floating in the water close to where children play in a High Wycombe park - prompting safety fears from passers-by.

The dead muntjac has been floating "directly above" the waterfall in the dyke, The Rye, for around four weeks, a concerned member of the public told the Bucks Free Press.

The waterfall is a popular spot for families cooling off in the hot weather - but many will likely be unaware of the animal's body floating in the water above it.

Despite it being reported to Buckinghamshire Council, the deer is apparently still there.

The concerned member of the public - who wanted to remain anonymous - said: "I’ve brought it to the attention of Wycombe Council who passed me through to the environmental health department, because it’s directly above the waterfall where children regularly play.

"The rotting corpse is extremely unpleasantly smelling for all walkers and park users, but more importantly is a potential danger for anyone playing in the water directly below the body.

"Neither the council or the environment department seem inclined to do anything."

Buckinghamshire Council has been approached by the Bucks Free Press to find out when the deer will be removed from the water.

The muntjac deer was introduced into the UK from China in the 20th century and is a familiar sight in woodlands throughout the south east.