UPDATED: FIREFIGHTERS CALLED TO RESCUE HORSE STUCK IN A HOLE AT HORSEBRIDGE HILL

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The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service have been called to an incident at Horsebridge Hill in Newport this evening (Wednesday).

Fire appliances including the Animal Rescue Unit from Newport and a Land Rover from Ryde were called to the scene shortly before 18:00.

It is understood firefighters are working to rescue a horse that has become stuck down a hole.

A fire officer is also on scene.

The road remains open under but traffic is heavy in the area so allow extra time for your journies – this may have a knock-on effect for Southern Vectis Route 1 buses.

UPDATE @ 19:05 – Green Watch, who started their shift at 18:00 have confirmed their colleagues from White Watch, who’s been on station since 09:00 this morning, are currently dealing with an animal rescue.

The horse’s owners family has told Island Echo that firefighters are trying to free the horse which has become stuck within a hole.

In an attempt to self-rescue, the horse has become extremely exhausted –  prompting the fire service response.

The family go on to say:

“We are really grateful they [Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service] have turned out to help her.”

UPDATE @ 21:00 – Firefighters have now stood down from the incident leaving the horse in the care of a vet.

Alice, the horse, is 26-years-old and 17 hands high.

The stop message was received by Fire Control at 19:15.

UPDATE @ 22:20 – Sadly, it has been confirmed that despite the firefighters’ and vet’s best efforts, Alice the horse has had to be put to sleep tonight.

A family member said her heart rate was so high, she was giving up.