Dandy is attended to during the previous rescue last month

Concern is mounting for a horse who had to be winched back to his feet by a special animal rescue crew after collapsing for the second time in two weeks.

Dandy is a 16-year-old, three-quarter tonne thoroughbred horse who lives at a Wittersham sanctuary.

The fire and rescue crew from Faversham were called to The Horse Refuge at Dobells Farm in Moons Green on Tuesday and spent more than an hour and a half getting Dandy back on his feet.

The KE reported a similar incident involving Dandy on May 21.

Sara Ross, who runs the refuge for neglected and abandoned horses, said: "This is the third time that it’s happened.

"He just couldn’t get up. He’s fine now, though he was a bit wobbly initially.

"I am beside myself I’m so worried.

"We can’t pinpoint what is wrong with him. It’s heartbreaking."

Originally rescued by The Horse Refuge, Duke has been cared for by Sara for three years.

She added: "The fire service was fantastic. Nothing is too much trouble for them."

n For more information on the refuge ring 01797 270555 or visit www.thehorserefuge.org