THESE pictures tell the story of an mishap with a happy ending.

Herefordshire firefighters were called to help rescue a horse that had fallen into a ditch at Whyle Lane, Pudleston, near Leominster.

The horse, called Shirenski, had become trapped in an awkward position and was unable to free himself.

Crews from Leominster and Bromyard went to help and after an operation lasting a few hours hauled the 32-year-old horse back onto his feet.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: “The animal was rescued and assisted to its feet by fire service personnel with the help of a private individual’s telehandler and the horse was left in the care of its owner."