A number of sheep have been killed as a result of flooding in east Devon.

The RSPCA and lifeguards from Exmouth tried to rescue stranded animals on Thursday, but had to stop when it got too dark.

About eight sheep, in fields close to Cowley Bridge near Exeter, were found dead on Friday morning.

But the RSPCA has said the remaining animals are now out of danger.

One sheep was rescued on Thursday

Lifesavers used surfboard-like rescue boards to attempt to save the animals which were trapped by rising water from the River Exe.

The RSPCA said the 15 animals were in "enormous peril".

Only one animal was rescued in the effort on Thursday before it got too dark to carry on.

All clear

Tony Woodley of the RSPCA said: "We've had staff down there this morning to check that none of the other animals are in any further danger.

"The river level has dropped and the Environment Agency has advised us that they've given the all clear on that stretch of river.

"What we're doing is continuing to investigate this incident."

Vet Ann Alenius had said there were concerns the animals were suffering because of their position.

She said: "They run the risk of being hypoglycaemic, their blood sugar may become very low.

"So, from those things, you could say they are suffering."