Fire crews rescue stricken cows stuck to their necks in mud

At approximately 10am on Monday, July 21, appliances from Carlisle East and Carlisle West Fire Stations and Wigton Fire Station, were called out to reports of cows stuck in quicksand, near Newton Arlosh.

The cows were up to their neck (Image: Carlisle East Fire Station) When they had arrived at the scene, crews discovered that four cows were stuck up to their necks in extremely firm mud, having broken through a gate overnight, and entered the river.

Crews helping to rescue a cow (Image: Carlisle East Fire Station) Using specialist equipment and the loan of a telehandler from a local farmer, crews were able to rescue the stricken animals and return them to their owner. 

Crews worked ‘tirelessly’ to help save the cows according to a spokesperson for Carlisle East Fire Station. 

A freed cow following the rescue (Image: Carlisle East Fire Station) “Our specialist Animal Rescue and Swift Water Rescue, trained crews worked tirelessly alongside the farmers, to safely rescue all 4 cows and return them to dry land,” said the spokesperson. 

“An udderly good ending for all, and thanks to the farmers for all their help including the use of their telehandler.”

Whilst to some it may seem a strange callout for fire crews, it is not the first time they have rescued stricken animals in recent times. 

Last month, crews were called out in Penrith to a report of 'sheep stuck on a two-storey roof' 

After arriving at the scene, the firefighters found one sheep and three lambs stuck on a roof. 

With assistance from a local farmer, the responding firefighters were able to rescue to stuck animals using ladders and reaching poles before returning them to their field.

Fire crews have also rescued horses in the past and undertake training to help them rescue different animals. 

The fire service are often best placed to help rescue animals with members of the public advised to keep themselves safe.