Carlisle firefighters have been sharpening their skills in helping stricken, larger animals who find themselves in danger.

Crews from Carlisle East Fire Station have been visiting the Racehorse Rescue Centre in Carlisle over the past few months to help hone their technique in using their equipment as well as large animal behaviour.

Carlisle crews put these skills to the test at the centre around five years ago, when they were called to come to the aid of an elderly rescue horse called ‘Peak’ who could not get off the floor of his stable due to an injured leg.

Crews managed to get him up to receive veterinary treatment, from which he thankfully recovered, and lived a happy life for another five years- before sadly passing away of old age recently at the ripe old age of 30.

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A spokesperson for Carlisle East Fire Station: “Huge thanks to the Racehorse Rescue Centre for their continued support in helping get our crews trained in new large animal rescue techniques.

“Over the last couple months, they have hosted us for some large animal behaviour and handling lessons, as well as helping facilitate our crews to practice new techniques using our equipment, alongside their on-site telehandler.”