SEVERAL cows stranded in water were rescued by firefighters at the weekend.

A farmer contacted Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS) at around 7pm yesterday (Sunday, October 2) reporting "five or six cows" unable to get out of the water.

A fire crew from Glastonbury and the specialist rescue team from Exmouth were sent to the incident at Totney Drove, Wedmore.

A DSFRS spokesperson said: "Initially one cow self rescued back to the field and a plan was formulated for further rescues.

"Three further cows were rescued from the river using strops, lines and mechanical assistance. Two more cows were then located.

"A swimmer from the fire service crew entered the water to encourage the cow to move towards the rest of the crew.

"The two cows were rescued from the river again using strops, lines and mechanical assistance.

"No further cows could be located but advice has been given to the two local farmers."