Moo-ving rescue as water workers step in to help cow stuck in ditch in Wharfedale
Contractors who were carrying out surveys stepped in to free the trapped animal
Yorkshire Water workers have stepping in to rescue a cow, after it got stuck in a ditch in Wharfedale.
The incident happened when contractors from United Infrastructure and Sustainable Riverways were conducting surveys for a water mains replacement project.
Farmer Micheal Greenwood alerted them to his predicament, with the cow wedged in a ditch and unable to free itself.
The team immediately acted - using an excavator to carve out escape ramps and secured the cow with straps.
Through a lengthy process of digging, pulling, and patience, the cow eventually regained her footing and walked back to safety.
Farmer Micheal Greenwood expressed gratitude: “It was very kind of the team to step in and help; they didn't have to do that, but they saved my cow. I will make sure we have a good cup of tea ready for the lads when they pass."
Ian Vonloon, team leader at Sustainable Riverways, said: “Our team worked together to make sure we could free her as safely and calmly as possible."
"We’re delighted the rescue was a success and that she was able to walk away unharmed. It certainly wasn’t on the day’s job sheet, but we’re always happy to help the communities we work in, and we'll definitely take Mr Greenwood up on his offer of a brew."