HOW a much-loved pony managed to remove a safety cover and fall into a stinking cesspit at his owners’ home remains a complete mystery.

Thankfully 13-year-old Baloo, named after the Jungle Book character, and owned by Sam and Charlie Scotcher survived the ordeal.

Emergency services were alerted and it took two hours before crews left the scene in Warren Street Road, Charing.

Mrs Scotcher said: "How he managed to remove the safety cover and fall into such a small space is remarkable."

* See the Kentish Express for the full story.