Pony rescued from inside tractor tyre

A pony trapped inside a tractor tyre in a field has been freed in a "delicate" rescue.

Residents contacted the RSPCA after finding the distressed pony completely stuck inside the large tyre lying on its side in a field in Stoke-on-Trent.

The RSPCA managed to lift the tyre while rescue officer Nicola Riley freed the "understandably very scared and uncomfortable animal" in stages.

After easing out his front feet, shoulder and finally releasing his neck, the pony was able to stand, uninjured, until he regained his strength while Riley monitored his condition, the charity said.

"It was a very delicate rescue," Riley said.

She said his fur was extremely matted and dirty, and although he was breathing, he was clearly distressed.

"We had to take a staggered approach to free him safely - first easing out his front feet, then carefully working his shoulder free before finally releasing his neck and front end.

"Thankfully, everyone worked really well together and we managed to get him out without causing any injury."

After being freed, he was "a little wobbly" and rested with his back end still inside the tyre for a while before eventually managing to walk himself free completely, the charity said.

Riley monitored him for about an hour afterwards to ensure he had recovered from his ordeal.

The tyre was moved to ensure it no longer posed a danger to other animals in the field.

"He soon returned to grazing and walking around the field again," Riley added.

"But this could have ended very differently, so I'm really grateful to the local residents who stopped to help."

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