A HORSE has been rescued by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service after becoming "wedged" in a dry ditch in Shepton Mallet. 

Emergency services were called to the incident at 11am on Thursday, September 5, in Forum Lane, Shepton Mallet.

A specialist rescue team was deployed to the scene. The horse was lifted to safety wearing a Hampshire harness around its belly and strops on its legs, lifted by a telehandler.

The animal was checked over by vets after the ordeal and "left with its owner".

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said in a statement: "Fire Control received a call to report a horse wedged in a dry ditch in the Forum Lane area of Shepton Mallet today at 11:00am. 

"A fire engine from Shepton Mallet, a specialist rescue team from Street and two officers were mobilised in the first instance, along with a telehandler from the Exeter area. 

"Attending crews are currently liaising with those on scene to formulate a plan."

They later updated, at 3pm: "One horse has been successfully rescued from a ditch using telehandler, strops and a Hampshire harness.

"The horse has been assessed by vets and left with its owner."

The "large" incident was attended by three fire stations; Clyst St George, Bridgwater, and Shepton Mallet.