A donkey has been rescued from a muddy drain in Northern Ireland – before being fed ginger biscuits by firefighters.

The small white donkey, named Snowie, was rescued by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) after officers were called to the scene in Co Antrim, just after 1pm on Saturday.

The animal, which appeared to be stuck on its side in a thick muddy drain, was freed using a hoist attached to a small digger.

Officers were pictured comforting Snowie after freeing her, with the aid of a few McVities Ginger Nuts to help her recover from the ordeal.

“At 1305 hrs this afternoon, Antrim On-Call crew attended an incident involving a donkey stuck in a drain,” the fire service said.

“Using manual handling techniques and improvisation, the crew successfully rescued the donkey. Well done to all.”

Tanya Bates, whose family appear to own Snowie, thanked the service for assisting with the rescue so quickly.

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Posting on Facebook, she said: “I can’t emphasise enough how grateful my family are to all who came to assist with Snowie’s rescue yesterday – NIFRS North were incredibly quick to respond, and very considerate of Snowie’s condition.

Giving an update on the animal’s condition, she added: “She’s since been warmed up, dried off and treated for her injuries – she fared well overnight and is much happier today!

“Fantastic work by the team and thanks again – I hope you all have the loveliest Christmas!”

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