FIREFIGHTERS went to the aid of a horse which was stuck in a ditch in the New Forest.

Crews were called to Sway after 13-year-old Romie was unable to free herself.

They rescued her using a lifting harness and a mobile machine similar to a forklift truck.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) tweeted: "Romie got in a bit of a night-mare when she became stuck in a ditch in Sway.

"Animal Rescue Advisors and Barn Equine vets were on hand to help the 16-hand mare out using a manitou."

HFRS was alerted at 9.18 yesterday.

A spokesperson said crews from four fire stations - Brockenhurst, Eastleigh, New Milton and Winchester - were sent to Lower Mead End Road in Sway.

They added: "A thirteen-year-old horse had become stuck in a ditch and her back legs weren’t visible.

"Barn Equine vets were on scene and sedated the horse for the rescue.

"A manitou was used to safely lift the horse out of the ditch and the stop message came in at 12.20."