Firefighters had to pluck two calves to safety after they slipped down a hole near Maidstone.

The cows were stuck 5ft down in an old drainage system after a cover gave way in a field off Linton Hill, Linton.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service joked: "They had only minor grazes and were udderly thrilled to be reunited with their mother, who looked on throughout the rescue.

"She was over the moooon to have them back."

The alarm was raised at about 1.20pm.

Fire crews, including the animal rescue unit, widened the hole to make room for a mechanical hoist to be lowered in.

Straps were put underneath the animals and they were lifted out one-by-one.

The firefighters left by 3.30pm.

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Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone.