Fire crews rescue horse trapped in mud

A horse has been rescued by firefighters after getting stuck in mud.

Crews were called after a 25-year-old Chestnut mare called Storm became trapped in a field near Chester-le-Street, County Durham, on Friday morning.

One of Storm's back legs was caught in a fence and the other stuck in the mud, but she was freed with equipment and a touch of people power.

Owner Chris Cowie thanked the crew.

"I really appreciate everything they did for Storm and I am so relieved she escaped with no injuries," Mr Cowie said.

Graham Liddle from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said he and the crew were pleased Storm hade made a full recovery.

A member of the public had already freed Storm’s leg from the fencing before firefighters arrived at the field in the Low Flatts area.

After Storm was moved to solid ground, the Special Rescue Unit from Bishop Auckland carried out a barrel skid and roll manoeuvre to encourage her to get up onto her feet.

Although tired from her ordeal, the horse got straight up, a crew spokesman said.

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