Firefighters' mission helps newly-born foal get back with its mother after rescue operation

A RECENTLY-born foal was rescued from a ditch in Stanford-le-Hope by firefighters today.

The rescue happened this morning (Tuesday, 18 May) on Stanford Road, just outside the town, where the road runs close to the A13.

Crews from Orsett and Corringham attended after the foal was spotted stuck in a ditch.

Corringham watch manager Geoff Wheal said: "The foal could only have been a few hours old so our crew were able to get down into the ditch and lift the foal out quite easily. We didn't need any special equipment on this rescue, and luckily we got the foal out really quickly.

"The foal didn't seem to have any injuries and as soon as we got it out, it joined its mother which is a good sign. We left the foal in the care of its mother and its owners."

It was a mission that had a happy outcome for firefighters, who were distressed in March last last year when they were called to a nearby stables but were unable to save foals and older horses trapped in a blaze.