A Sandy company was among those praised for its part in rescuing a horse which became trapped in a ditch in the town.

The Comet: A number of parties were involved in the horse rescue operation, including Sandy firm Copart which assisted using a telescopic handler which can be seen in the background. Picture: Beds Fire and RescueA number of parties were involved in the horse rescue operation, including Sandy firm Copart which assisted using a telescopic handler which can be seen in the background. Picture: Beds Fire and Rescue (Image: Archant)

Fire crews from Sandy and Kempston stations were called out on Friday morning after a horse had slipped into a ditch in Georgetown and was unable to get itself out.

Members of the Kempston crew – who are trained to rescue large animals – led the operation, with the RSPCA and a vet also called to help with sedation.

But vehicle salvage company Copart – which is based in Georgetown Road – played its part too, using a telescopic handler machine to assist in the rescue.

The horse was safely set free and returned to a nearby field none the worse for its adventure.

Station Commander Derek Hobbs from Beds Fire and Rescue Service was at the scene and praised the crews for their swift response.

He said: “These situations are always tricky but fortunately our crew is specially trained to do this and we had the support of the RSPCA and a vet to ensure that the animal was safe and calm and we were able to perform the rescue quickly. A big thanks also to local company Copart of Sandy who assisted with the rescue using a telescopic handler.”