WORKING in conjunction with the Malpas and Monmouthshire Fire and Rescue team, the RSPCA Cymru successfully rescued a stag that had become trapped in a ditch. The animal was found to be poor condition, and had to be put to sleep.

The rescue, on September 13, took place off Wyesham Road in Wyesham, Monmouth, when the stag was found head down in the ditch with its feet in the air. But after managing to release it from the ditch, while it was still breathing, it was found to be 'covered in flies and maggots' and was in extreme distress.

RSPCA inspector Sophie Daniels said: "This was both a successful and a sad operation. I'd like to thank our colleagues at Malpas and Monmouthshire Fire and Rescue for their professionalism and compassion but unfortunately this majestic stag was too ill to make it. As RSPCA officers we are committed to alleviating animal suffering wherever we find it and I'm proud that we did our best to help this animal."