FIREFIGHTERS and rescue teams helped a stricken cow that had became stuck up to its neck in mud near Mepal.

One crew from Chatteris, one crew from Huntingdon and a rescue vehicle from Huntingdon were called Mepal River Bridge shortly after 5pm following reports that a cow was sinking fast into the water and mud.

The RSPCA and the farmer were in attendance at the incident, which was about 300m from a road.

Firefighters used specialist animal rescue equipment, including straps, to release the cow from the ditch.

Crews remained at the scene for more than three hours before finally returning to their stations by 8.50pm.

Carl Pardon, station commander, said: “The cow was in a very mud-filled ditch about 300m from the nearest vehicular access. The cow was stuck in the mud and couldn’t get out.

“The first crew from Chatteris arrived and assessed the scene and requested assistance from our specially trained animal rescue technicians. With their expertise and liaison with the RSPCA officer who was on site, we made a plan.

“Our specialist animal rescue strops were decided to be a much better release method for the animal’s welfare, rather than using any hydraulic equipment. Especially as the cow was in the early stages of pregnancy.

“We were really happy with the outcome and the cow is fine. The RSPCA also commended the work of the crews and said it was one of the best animal rescues he had ever seen.”