Police dog handler Mark Needham had a lucky escape after falling down a well in the dark.
PC Needham was tracking a burglar across some fields by Mile End Road, Nayland, at 8.30pm on Friday evening when the corrugated iron covering gave way under him.
He fell five feet into the icy water but managed to stay afloat by treading water.
Fortunately his radio still worked and he was able to call for help.
Detective Constable Paul Brown managed to find his colleague because his faithful dog was still sitting on the edge of the well.
PC Needham was treated for cuts and bruises at Colchester General Hospital but was later released.
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