A cow has died and two others needed rescuing from a river in Colne at lunchtime today (April 30).

The cows were stranded in the River Marden at Castlefields Canal and River Park and were showing signs of distress.

A fire crew from Calne, the animal rescue unit from Stratton St Margaret and an animal rescue trained officer responded to the call at 1.14pm.

On arrival, one cow released itself without needing their help.

Another needed rescuing by the animal rescue specialists.

Sadly, the third cow was found to have died.

It was removed by the farmer using heavy lifting machinery.

A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "A fire crew from Calne, the animal rescue unit from Stratton St Margaret and an animal rescue trained officer have attended the river Marden in Calne, where a number of cows were stranded in water and showing signs of distress.

"One cow released itself without assistance, one cow was unfortunately found to be deceased, and another cow was rescued from the river by the animal rescue team."