Bighearted firefighters on Canvey are in line for a special award for saving the life of a helpless horse.

Animal Aid is to present the team with an award for rescuing Dallas, a 25-year-old horse, who nearly died after getting stuck in a ditch last May.

Owner Sue Horton, 45, feared she would lose the horse as he became weak and distressed.

She pinned her hopes on determined Canvey firefighters who wrestled in the mud to free Dallas from the ditch, off Canvey Way.

They tied ropes to his legs and managed to winch him out while supporting his body weight to stop him sinking.

Sub-officer Martin Pullen said: "We are delighted to receive this award. It is nice for the crew to be recognised for their efforts.

"We get animal rescues from time to time on Canvey as the livestock tends to stray close to the water's edge for extra food.

"This rescue was a particularly drawn out task and was arduous for the firefighters as they were trying to work in thick mud while keeping the animal calm."

Dallas was first rescued at 14 months old when his owner bought him. He had been so badly treated that he still bears scars from the pressure sores.

Yvonne Taylor, Animal Aid's campaigns co-ordinator, said: "Canvey firefighters are an excellent example of compassion in action.

"Thanks to their speedy efforts, Dallas went on to make a full recovery. They demonstrated that generosity of spirit need not have any limits and Dallas was a worthy recipient of their compassion."

The firecrew will be presented with the award during an Animal Aid awareness day at Lakeside shopping centre on August 7.

Muddy but safe - a weary Dallas, surrounded by his rescuers

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