Fire crews and animal rescuers heaved a Highland cow to safety after it had got stuck in mud near Toddlers Cove in Canterbury last night.

The cow had been spotted by Kelly Stygle who said she could hear a rustling from the field behind her after she had taken her dog for a walk.

On Facebook she commented: “Upon investigating I saw a Highland cow laying down in the mud. She was stuck. I called the RSPCA, then decided to pop home to grab a torch as it was getting dark.

“When we returned the cow had tried to get out, but moved into the water. Her head was only just out of the water and was sinking.

“I quickly called the Fire Brigade and they arrived at the same time as the RSPCA. It took 12 firefighters to eventually pull her out.

“They would have used the fire engine but they couldn’t get it close enough to use it.

“After they pulled her out she laid there motionless but thankfully after about ten minutes, with some encouragement she was on her feet and walked off.”

Kent Fire and Rescue spokesman Sacha Taylor said two fire engines went to Linden Grove in Canterbury after receiving the call at 10.43pm.

It took them more than an hour to rescue it using a winch, before crews left the scene at midnight.

Kelly added: “I am so glad we decided to go for a walk this evening otherwise she may not have made it through the night. Thank you to all who helped to rescue her.”