A PONY was rescued by firefighters after falling down a six-foot ditch.

Fire crews from Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst and Hightown Fire Stations were called to save 10-year-old Shetland pony Dinky at around 8.20pm last night.

Dinky had become trapped in a field near Botley and was on its feet.

Firefighters and Hampshire Fire and Rescue's animal rescue team managed to lift Dinky out of the ditch with the help of an onsite vet, who administered a mild painkiller.

Lyndhurst Fire Station confirmed Dinky was now recovering.