Moo-ving rescue as Yorkshire Water team saves stranded cow

A Yorkshire Water team swapped their day job for an unexpected farmyard rescue after helping to free a cow that had become trapped in a narrow ditch at a farm in Wharfedale.

The incident unfolded while Yorkshire Water contractors United Infrastructure and Sustainable Riverways were on site completing surveys ahead of a water mains replacement project. The team were approached by a concerned farmer who alerted them that one of his cows had become wedged in a ditch and was unable to get itself free.

Without hesitation, the team put down their tools and sprang into action.

Using an excavator, they carefully carved out escape ramps while other members of the team secured the exhausted animal with straps. After a combined effort involving careful digging, pulling and plenty of patience, the cow was finally able to regain its footing and walk safely back to the field.

Farmer Micheal Greenwood of Wharfedale Garden Farm said: “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."

Ian Vonloon, team leader at Yorkshire Water contractor Sustainable Riverways, said: “Our team worked together to make sure we could free her as safely and calmly as possible. We’re delighted the rescue was a success and that she was able to walk away unharmed. It certainly wasn’t on the day’s job sheet, but we’re always happy to help the communities we work in, and we'll definitely take Mr Greenwood up on his offer of a brew."

The successful rescue left the team covered head to toe in mud, but with one grateful farmer, one safe cow and a story they’ll be talking about for years to come.