FIREFIGHTERS used a mechanical digger to rescue a horse trapped in a ditch in Winsford.

Fire engines from Winsford and Lymm, along with a specialist animal rescue unit from Bollington, responded to reports of an animal in distress on Swanlow Lane at 9.26am on Monday, June 22.

Crews managed to rescue the horse, which was sedated for its own well-being, with the help of a vet and a farmer, assisted by a mechanical digger.   

Thanks to their efforts, 27-year-old Charlie is now back in the care of his owner.

A spokesman for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Crews have safely rescued a horse from a ditch.

"Firefighters worked with the farmer and a vet to release the horse, aided by a mechanical digger.

“The horse was sedated during the rescue and left in the care of the vet and its owner.”