Firefighters step up to help 30 thirsty horses during heatwave
The owner contacted the fire brigade during a spell of hot weather
Firefighters have gone to the rescue of 30 horses in an unusual mission on the outskirts of the capital.
London Fire Brigade sent help to a yard in Chislehurst as a burst water main in the area had meant the water supply had been cut off for a few days,
“The owner became concerned for their welfare due to the heat and called London Fire Brigade for help,” a spokesperson for the service said, adding that as there were resources available in the area, control sent blue watch from Bromley Fire Station to the yard.
Station officer Mark Howlett, who was on the scene, said: “This was one of our more unusual callouts, but firefighters love animals and we were more than willing to help.”
Mr Howlett said the crew used hoses from the one fire engine sent to the scene to fill seven troughs, to ensure the horses had enough water to last several days.
“Given the high risk of wildfires due to the continuing hot weather, we also watered the field to reduce the chance of it catching alight,” he said.
“We’re glad to have been able to help so many animals and this will certainly stand out as a memorable call out for the watch.”
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
To stay up to date with the latest equestrian news, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website
Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.