Water workers moo-ve stricken cow in rescue

A team of water workers sprung into action to rescue a cow in deep trouble at a farm in West Yorkshire.

Five contractors from Yorkshire Water had been completing surveys ahead of a water mains replacement project when a panicked Michael Greenwood from Wharfedale Garden Farm, near Otley, sought their help.

Greenwood's cow had become wedged in a ditch and was unable to free herself, but the quick-thinking team used an excavator to carve out an exit route for the creature, who eventually escaped unharmed.

Ian Vonloon, one of the unlikely heroes of the rescue operation, said: "It certainly wasn't on the day's job sheet, but we're always happy to help the communities we work in."

Vonloon, who works for Yorkshire Water contractor Sustainable Riverways, said he and his team were "delighted the rescue was a success", even if it left them covered in mud from head to toe.

A grateful Greenwood added: "It was very kind of the team to step in and help. They didn't have to do that, but they saved my cow.

"I will make sure we have a good cup of tea ready for the lads when they pass."

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