SPECIALIST firefighters from Bromyard put their training into action for real this morning to rescue a horse who had become trapped in a ditch.

The A465 from Bromyard to Stoke Lacy was closed whilst the Large Animal Rescue team carried out the carefully co-ordinated rescue, but has now re-opened.

A Bromyard Fire Station Spokesperson said: "The horse was frightened by a passing lorry whilst out on a ride and lost its footing, ending up wedged in the ditch, but the rider was able to raise the alarm.

"The vet was called and with the help of a local farmer with a telehandler, the sedated horse was lifted free.

"No lasting damage physically, although mentally he may take a while to regain confidence on the roads.

"Horses are by nature a "flight" animal and can move sideways at remarkable speed when startled. Please give them the width of a car when passing and drop your speed to 15mph."

The horse was taken to a nearby stables and has now made a full recovery, as seen in this video posted by Bromyard Fire Station.