Horse rescued from swimming pool by Suffolk and Norfolk firefighters
Buddy the horse was freed with the help of a Unimog all-terrain vehicle
Last updated 7th May 2026
A horse named Buddy was safely rescued from a swimming pool at The Old Stables in Wissett, with the assistance of fire crews from both Suffolk and Norfolk.
The animal rescue operation began at 10:20 am on 5th May 2026 and was attended by stations from Wrentham and Lowestoft South.
Firefighters used a submersible pump to lower the water level while awaiting the arrival of a veterinarian from Chapelfield Veterinary Partnership in Brook.
A Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service swift water rescue technician collaborated with the team to devise a rescue plan.
At 12:43 pm, Buddy was hoisted out of the pool using a Unimog, which is an all-terrain vehicle ideal for such rescues.
Following Buddy's extraction, he was placed into the care of the vet and his owners.
A stop was called on the operation at 12:46 pm.
The incident officially closed at 1:55 pm the following day.
Acknowledgements were given to the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service crew from Harleston and neighbours who allowed tree removal for access to the pool.