Deer trapped beneath boulders on Exmouth beach put to sleep
Firefighters faced challenging conditions in effort to save roe deer
Firefighters were called to Mamhead View in Exmouth after a deer became trapped beneath sea defence boulders.
The incident occurred around 9am when a dog walker heard splashing from beneath the sea wall and saw the distressed animal.
Exmouth fire station crews used specialist spreading equipment to access the deer, which was in cold water due to the rising tide.
Despite being rescued, the deer was too badly injured and had to be euthanised.
The challenging situation saw an impressive response from the fire brigade, harbour master, and local residents.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “A challenging job for Exmouth Fire Station this morning as they came to the aid of a deer who was having a rocky start to the day, finding itself trapped two metres below some boulders on Exmouth Seafront."
The deer was initially with Devon Wildlife Trust and rescued safely before its injuries were found to be too severe.
On the Exmouth Community Facebook page, it was confirmed: "Sad news from Tony that the deer was too badly injured to save, so was put to sleep.
"Still good to know everyone did what they could to minimise the distress though.
"Amazing response from the Fire Brigade, Harbour Master and Tony Bennett this morning to help the injured roe deer that was trapped under the rocks by Mamhead slipway.
"Well done Rachael for spotting it and thanks Jane England for passing on Tony's details."