A WOMAN has thanked the fire service for saving her dog after it fell into the River Wye in Hereford.

Lacey, a cross between a Jack Russell, a Dachshund and a Labrador, ended up in the water near Hunderton shortly on Tuesday morning.

Its owner Paula Hawley was walking Lacey and her three dogs with neighbours Jean Tidmarsh and Sue Perry close to their Broomy Hill homes when they noticed Lacey was missing.

They called out to her, but to no avail until a passer-by spotted her in the river.

"It was a steep drop from the bank, so I told Sue that I would phone for my husband John," said Paula.

"He came down with a rope and a ladder, but they both said that we had to call the fire service, so I called 999.

"The fire crew came and were absolutely awesome.

"The lady officer was in the water up to her waist - I couldn't bear to think what would have happened to Lacey because she's so small."

Paula said that Lacey is recovering well following her ordeal.

"She is fine now - John wrapped her in a jumper to keep her warm," she added.

"She is a typical terrier and is always inquisitive."