A fox which found itself trapped after falling 8ft into a tiny gap between a fence and shed has been rescued.

The frightened animal was curled up in a ball when discovered in a garden in Ramsgate on Monday by the property owner who alerted the RSPCA.

The charity's rescue specialist Brian Milligan believes the fox was trying to get onto the roof shed when it fell into the tiny gap and could not get out.

“When I arrived to help it was dark and the little guy had somehow managed to curl up in a tight little ball at the bottom of the gap," he said.

"He looked very sad and frightened, and had no means of escape on his own.

"I managed to use my net and grasper to carefully scoop him underneath and lift him up and onto the roof.

"I checked him over and thankfully he wasn’t injured so I released him back into the garden to run off to his home.

"It was lovely to see him running free again after being stuck in such a tricky situation.”

Anyone who comes across a sick, injured or trapped wild animal should monitor from a safe distance and contact the RSPCA’s emergency hotline on 0300 1234 999 for advice.

To support the RSPCA's animal welfare work, visit its website or call the donation line on 0300 123 8181.