Trapped deer put to sleep after rescue

2 hours ago

News image — Rescuers were called shortly before 09:00 BST

Yvonne Cavill Rescuers wearing hard hats are standing on steps next to the water after rescuing the deer. Three men are walking up the stairs holding the animal. It has been wrapped in a towel. Metal barriers are running down the side of the steps. — Rescuers were called shortly before 09:00 BST

A trapped deer which was rescued after it fell two metres below boulders on a slipway has died.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said a crew from Exmouth Fire Station was called to Mamhead View in Exmouth shortly before 09:00 BST on Tuesday to free the trapped adult male animal.

Crews said rescuers used spreading equipment to lift and move a rock so they could place a sling under the deer and lift it out.

Tony Bennett, who runs Moorlands Wildlife Centre, was called to the scene by a member of the public and confirmed the animal was put to sleep due to "extensive injuries".

Yvonne Cavill Aerial shot looking down at the trapped deer. The animal is submerged in water. It's head is above the surface of the water. Two antlers are on top of its head. It is surrounded by rocks. — The deer suffered extensive injuries

The deer's remains were taken to a vet to be checked over.

Bennett said: "It had got very bad injuries to its knee, it had got a broken jaw. It was never going to survive.

"It did die very peacefully... the kindest thing was done. It means that there's no more suffering. It's always the last option."

Despite the sad outcome, Bennett said the wildlife centre dealt with a "lot of positive outcomes", involving animals which have been rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

He urged people to contact their local wildlife centre if they spotted an animal in distress.