A playful toddler got more than she bargained after sticking her hand inside in a video recorder.

The child, aged between 12 and 18 months, was playing at home in Lakeside Walk, Canvey, when she became trapped by the machine.

Her frantic mum tried to free the girl's hand but to no avail. Worried about what to do, she dialled 999, and the emergency services alerted the island's fire station.

A crew arrived minutes later and set about the rescue operation.

Sub officer Paul Marsh said: "The little girl was fine and didn't seem too upset. The mum was quite stressed but controlled. It didn't take long to free her hand."

Firefighters used a screwdriver as part of the delicate rescue operation at about 8pm last night.

An ambulance crew also arrived at the home and checked the youngster over before going on their way.

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