Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service were called out to two equine emergencies in as many days when a mare fell into a brook and another horse got stuck in a bog.
Knutsford Fire Station’s watch manager, Stuart Stenhouse, said it was an “exceptionally hectic” few days for his crews.
“We had a busy weekend in mid-September with two horse rescues in two days,” he confirmed.
The first incident occurred on Saturday (13 September), when Rosie, a 13-year-old mare, fell into a brook in Tabley.
Specialist animal rescue firefighters from Knutsford were joined by crews from Bollington and Lymm to assist. Using strops and a telehandler, they were able to safely secure the horse before lifting her up the embankment to solid ground.
“Working with colleagues from Bollington and Lymm, we used the equipment to lift Rosie to safety. She was soon back on her feet and, remarkably, showed no signs of injury,” said Stuart.
Rosie was later checked over by her owner and found to be in good health. She was safely returned to her stable after the ordeal.
Hindlegs deep in the mud
The following day (Sunday 14 September), firefighters responded to a second emergency in Siddington, where Gem, an 18-year-old mare, had become stuck in a bog and her hindlegs sank deep into the mud.
With support from Macclesfield and Bollington crews, plus a local vet, specialist equipment and a tractor were used to free her.
Stuart said the joint effort paid off, noting that “it’s always a great outcome when the animals are unhurt and can return to their stables after such a stressful experience”.
During the rescue, the mare’s welfare was monitored by the attending vet. Once freed, she was walked around the field to ensure she was steady on her feet before being returned to her stable to be washed and warmed up.
Welfare first
The veteran horse’s owner, Catherine Sims, was away on holiday at the time of the accident. In her absence, Gem was being cared for by family friend Nic Pakenham-Walsh, who praised the emergency services for their calm and professional approach.
“Thank you so much for your support and professionalism whilst rescuing Gem yesterday,” she said. “You made sure she was kept calm throughout and put her welfare first. We will forever be grateful.”
Catherine has since shared her gratitude as well, describing the mare as her “precious unicorn.”
“Thank you all so much for saving our precious Gem yesterday,” she said.
Images by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service
