A rescue that involved several complex methods took place in Cumbria on Thursday afternoon (October 3) after a lamb became stuck down 20 metres down a drain 

Kirkby Stephen Mountain Rescue Team were called to assist with the young sheep that underneath some farm buildings.

Access was reported to very tight, and as there was potential for gases to accumulate Cumbria Ore Mines Rescue Unit (COMRU) were called to assist.

READ MORE:  Fire crews called to Carnforth industrial estate

Since the 1980s, the volunteers have dealt exclusively with mine rescue incidents.

A 'lean' volunteer got into the drain (Image: COMRU) A spokesperson for COMRU said :"We were able to deploy gas detectors and a lean team member in an attempt to reach the lamb. However, it was not possible.

"COMRU were stood down with Kirkby Stephen MRT making alternative plans for Friday morning.

Plastic piping and drain rods were used at one point (Image: COMRU) For more rescue stories, click here to subscribe to the Westmorland Gazette

"Further unsuccessful attempts were made with plastic piping and drain rods.

"Ultimately, the lamb was persuaded to continue further downstream to a manhole, by the application of high volume water from Fire & Rescue.

"A challenging problem with a happy outcome."