A bull failed to live up to his name after falling into a drainage ditch and becoming stuck in a County Durham field.

But Lucky Lad was feeling more bullish later after members of the RSPCA and Durham Fire and Rescue Service came to his aid.

The animal charity was contacted by the bull’s owner after he fell into the drain on his field in Crook, on Tuesday (18 April).

Despite the owner’s efforts to pull him free, he had to raise the alarm when it became apparent specialist equipment would be needed to lift not-so-Lucky Lad to safety.

The Northern Echo: Bull lifted to safety after becoming stuck in ditch at Crook Bull lifted to safety after becoming stuck in ditch at Crook (Image: RSPCA)

Read more: North Yorkshire Fire service called to rescue statue horse

RSPCA inspectors Rachael Hurst and Terri Ann Fannon arrived at the scene and soon realised they would require assistance from the fire service to move the 15-year-old Dexter bull.

Ms Hurst said: “Lucky Lad had managed to fall into a drainage ditch and was unable to get up.

“His owner was quite worried as he started frothing at the mouth and his eyes were rolling back into his head.

“He was also exhausted and weak after trying to free himself.

“Sometimes with rescues like this, we work together with the fire service as they have equipment which we don’t carry.

“Luckily the fantastic fire and rescue crew had animal straps which they used to barrel roll Lucky Lad out of the ditch.

“A vet from Dunelm Vets, in Durham, also attended and checked him over.

“He was a bit shaken after his ordeal but thankfully unharmed, so this was another great example of what we can all achieve together for animal welfare.”

The Northern Echo: Bull called Lucky Lad having a drink after rescue ordeal on farm at Crook, County Durham Bull called Lucky Lad having a drink after rescue ordeal on farm at Crook, County Durham (Image: RSPCA)

Firefighters also highlighted the importance of the joint effort, working hand-in-hand with the RSPCA duo to help the bull.

Read more: County Durham firefighters rescue horse from beck

A service spokesperson said: “We were called to assist in the rescue of the bull who unfortunately had become stuck in a drainage ditch.

“Our crew used their specialist knowledge and equipment to roll the bull and move him to safety.

Read next:

* Durham and Darlington emergency services rescue horse stuck in muddy field

* Countryfile's Matt Baker helps neglected horses in County Durham

* Peterlee fire crew bring Zack the springer spaniel to safety

Subscribe to a Premium Plus package to The Northern Echo from as little as £1.50 per week and read more quality stories and extras. Click here

“We’d like to thank all agencies in attendance who worked together to deliver the best possible outcome for the bull and its owner.

“We wish Lucky Lad a speedy recovery.”

The RSPCA urged anyone who sees an animal which needs rescuing to consult the charity’s website for advice on what to do, and who can help.