FIREFIGHTERS rescued a stag after it slipped into a brook near West Hendred. 

Yesterday afternoon crews were called after the deer slipped backwards into the cavern, which had formed due to a collapsed concrete bridge over a brook.

It was unable to escape on its own due to the sheer drop of the bank. 

Incident Commander Graham Turner said: “This really was a potentially dangerous incident for the firefighters as the stag was trying to force its way out of the cavern.

“Its large antlers could easily have caused a serious injury, but it was a beautiful animal that was uninjured and we felt that in spite of the dangers we had to at least try and release it if we could.

“Otherwise it would have to have been shot to avoid further suffering.”

The stag’s release was also complicated by nylon twine that had become wrapped around its neck, he added.

Firefighters cut it away though while working with the RSPCA.

“We are all pleased that he is up and about in time for Christmas, in case he is needed to pull a sleigh on the big night,” Incident Commander Turner said.

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