FIREFIGHTERS rescued a horse during a complex animal rescue incident in Thurrock today (Sunday, 4 June).

Crews were called to an area near Churchill Road, Grays, this morning after reports a horse had left its field and got stuck in canal water.

Station Manager Toby Ingham said: "Our specialist animal rescue and water rescue teams worked alongside frontline fire crews in a complex incident to rescue the large horse.

"Special thanks to the out-of-hours equine vet who worked with the owner and our crews to safely rescue the horse and resolve the incident.

"While we train for these incidents and are very happy to attend, we would urge all horse owners to maintain their boundary fences as far as reasonably practicable for the safety and security of their horses."

The horse was left in the care of the owner at 11.40am.