There was no horse play involved when the alert went out to help a four-legged Norwegian Fjord get to his feet.

Freddy the horse was found by his owner lying under an overhead power cable unable to stand up earlier today, so Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) was called upon to assist.

The service's specialist animal rescue team, based in Faversham, was dispatched to aid the struggling 25-year-old horse in Minster.

Pete Yarwood, crew manager, said: “Freddy was lying under an overhead power cable, so the first thing we had to do was put a strop around him and drag him forward using the winch on our animal rescue unit.

"Once he was clear of the power cable, a harness was put on Freddy and then we lifted him back to his feet using a special crane."

Once he was standing, the good natured horse was checked over by the vet and then started walking around.

Freddy’s owner was delighted and said: “The crew were so amazing, incredibly kind to me and Freddy. I cannot thank them enough, they were absolutely fantastic this morning.”

Mr Yarwood added: “Animal rescues are part of our commitment to serving the community.

"Some animals, when in distress, can be extremely volatile and could kick out and hurt anyone attempting a rescue. This was far from the case with Freddy, he had a lovely temperament and we were pleased to be able to help.”