FIREFIGHTERS from Bishop Auckland worked through the night to rescue a horse that had fallen into a trench.
The 20-year-old horse landed on its back and was unable to free itself from the two metre deep ditch.
During the rescue operation the horse had to be sedated by a vet three times but just after 2am it was moved on to its front using specialised animal rescue equipment. It was then hoisted to safety.
The vet is confident the horse will make a full recovery.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here