A horse has been rescued after it had fallen in a ditch and was unable to get up.

A fire crew from Pewsey, a team from the heavy rescue unit at Middlemoor and the water safety equipment from Exmouth arrived at a field off Exeter Road in Clyst St Mary on Monday lunchtime (October 19).

They found a 17 hands gelding lying on its side in a ditch, unable to right itself.

South West Farmer:

The rescue underway. Picture: Pewsey Fire Station

Consequently, they called for further assistance from a telehandler from Clyst St George, Exeter.

Using strops, rescue lines and animal rescue kit, they managed to right the horse.

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A spokesperson said: "The fire service received a call reporting a horse fallen in a ditch, lying on its side and unable to get up.

"Upon arrival, fire crews requested the attendance of the telehandler from Clyst St George, Exeter and confirmed a gelding, 17 hands high, stuck in a ditch.

"Fire crews rescued the horse using strops, rescue lines and animal rescue equipment."

After the rescue, the horse was handed over to a vet.