Dramatic footage shows the moment a Springer Spaniel was rescued by fire crews after it fell into a 30ft deep sinkhole.

Two fire engines attended the scene in Farningham Wood, Dartford, following reports of a dog stuck at the bottom of the hole.

The operation started shortly after 4pm yesterday (May 4) and finished later in the evening at 7.35pm.

Firefighters used line rescue equipment to lower themselves into the hole and retrieve the pooch safely.

The RSPCA also attended and is now taking care of the pooch.

The charity’s animal rescue officer Lynn White said: “The poor spaniel was deep in a 30ft hole and Kent Fire & Rescue did an amazing job.

“A fire officer abseiled down to the bottom and brought the dog back up to the surface in a rescue bag. She didn’t have a scratch on her. It’s a miracle she was unharmed.

“While the dog was microchipped, the details were out of date, so, as a stray, she is being looked after by Sevenoaks Dog Warden in the hope that her owner will eventually come forward.

“This incident shows how important it is to keep the microchip details of your dog up to date.

“The RSPCA was called out because the hole was originally thought to be a badger sett - which is protected by law. But it turned out to be an old sinkhole in the middle of a field.

“This rescue had a happy ending, but it could have turned out very differently. We would like to thank Kent Fire & Rescue for their amazing, skilled rescue.”

It is still not known how and when the dog fell into the hole but other walkers in the area heard the dog barking yesterday afternoon and dialled 999 for help.

Fire services warned pet owners to always make sure to keep tabs on them when out and about.

If they get into trouble and need rescuing from height or depth, do not attempt to rescue them yourself, and call 999 if it is an emergency.