A THOROUGHBRED horse has been rescued after falling into a pond.

The 22-year-old steed, named Molly, fell down a bank and became stuck in the water – prompting a rescue mission by fire crews including a specialist animal rescue team.

The crews used straps and lines to pull Molly – who weighs a ton – free of the water.

The horse got to its feet unscathed and was checked by a vet.

A Dorset Fire and Rescue spokesman said they were called to the pond near Over Compton in North Dorset at 9.40am on Saturday.

He said: “The horse had fallen down a five to six-metre bank into the water and was unable to get up.

“The crew made excellent progress rescuing the horse.

“Once the horse was rescued he got up of his own accord and was checked by a vet and appeared to be okay.”