Firefighters from Potters Bar have been given an RSPCA award for their role in rescuing a horse that fell into a pond.

Alongside crews from Hatfield and Chesthunt, the firefighters spent three-and-a-half hours trying to free the distressed horse after it got trapped in a pond in Oakwell Drive, in Potters Bar, on February 19.

Royal Veterinary College vet Anna Turk was also commended for her role.

The award ceremony took place at Potters Bar Fire Station, in Mutton Lane, on Tuesday, where the rescuers received a certificate of merit from the RSPCA's chief inspector for Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, Malcolm Horsman.

Mr Horsman said: "The fire service was fantastic and played an invaluable role in rescuing the horse.

"We are immensely grateful for the hard work and help of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue on this occasion and for offering consistent support to the RSPCA in the county."

Potters Bar station commander Barry Pryke said: "Our crews did an amazing job on the day and it's really nice that their efforts are being recognised. Sadly the horse passed away, but we did all we could to give her the best possible chance of survival."