A hapless horse was hauled free after plunging into a deep water-filled ditch.
It was submerged up to its neck and couldn’t escape.
Specialist rescuers dived in to help the exhausted, anxious animal.
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It happened near Bromyard, Herefordshire, as reported by Need To Know.
A spokesperson for Bromyard Fire Station said: “The Large Animal Rescue team from Bromyard, working alongside our colleagues from Pershore Fire Station, were called out to rescue a horse that had slipped down an embankment into a very wet, boggy ditch.
“Due to the steep sides, the horse was unable to get himself out.
“The owner called vets to assess the horse before we could carry out the rescue.
“Then a plan was jointly put in place,
“Before this could take place, the vet sedated the horse, which helped to calm him down and enable us to help him.
“Water First Responders were then able to get into the water and position lifting strops around the horse.
“Using a local farmer’s telehandler, we slid him onto our large rescue board before pulling him clear of the water.
“After a very short rest, he was able to get to his feet and walk back to his stable, where the vet gave him a thorough check-over.”
A spokesperson for Cheltenham Equine Vets added: “Never a dull day.
“Fortunately no harm was done and this lovely boy is none the worse for his ordeal.”
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