County Durham firefighters called to unusual rescue to free horse stuck in mud

Firefighters in County Durham were called to a rescue a little different to their usual day job last week when a horse got into sticky situation.

Crews from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) were called to help the mare in the Low Flatts area of Chester-le-Street just before 7.30am on Friday, April 19, after she became trapped in the mud in her field. One fire engine from High Handenhold Fire Station and the Special Rescue Unit from Bishop Auckland Fire Station came to the rescue of 25-year-old Storm, who had her rear right leg stuck in the mud while her rear left leg was trapped in fencing.

A kind member of the public had already freed Storm's leg from the fencing before the firefighters arrived, so the crew got straight to work in freeing her from the mud. They used animal rescue equipment, slings and a touch of people power, to move the horse to more solid ground.

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The Special Rescue Unit from Bishop Auckland then carried out a barrel skid and roll manoeuvre to encourage the mare to get up onto her feet. Although tired from her ordeal, the horse got straight up - much to the delight of owner, Chris Cowie.

"I'd just like to say a big thank you to the crew," Chris said. "I really appreciate everything they did for Storm and I am so relieved she escaped with no injuries."

High Handenhold watch manager Graham Liddle said: "It's not every day you get to attend an animal rescue, and it is always a great day when they go as successfully and safely as this one did. The crew and I are so pleased to hear Storm has made a full recovery."

Following the rescue, the fire service is taking the opportunity to remind locals that crews don't just attend fire-related incidents - they are also trained in a host of rescue techniques. In situations like Storm's, CDDFRS has urged the public to call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.