An overly curious fox required some human assistance after getting himself trapped in a very tight spot.

The critter was rescued by an RSPCA inspector and a first responder from Kent Fire and Rescue Service in Hazel Road, Dartford, where he had got his neck trapped between a wall and a fence as he tried to jump through a gap.

His predicament was reported to the animal charity by a concerned member of the public, with inspector Rosemary Leach first on the scene.

She couldn't free the fox herself and he was finding it difficult to breathe, but called the fire service and the first responder was able to pull the fence and create a big enough gap for the fox to be rescued.

“The fox was well and truly jammed and there was no way he could get out by himself," said Inspector Leach.

“He had superficial wounds to his right foot where he had clearly been scrambling to get out.

"I took him to the South Essex Wildlife Hospital for treatment, and after a couple of days of monitoring he was able to be released back to the wild.

“I would like to thank the fire officer for their work in rescuing the fox they were great and also thank South Essex Wildlife Hospital for caring for him.”

Anyone who sees injured wildlife or an animal in distress should contact the RSPCA, 24 hours a day, on 0300 1234 999.

For specific advice on foxes, visit the charity's website.