FIREFIGHTERS had to use digging equipment to rescue a dog which had become stuck down a hole.

The incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon(February 6) after a Patterdale Terrier named Barney ran into a derelict area of Crystal Palace Park and crawled down an animal hole.

Unfortunately Barney could not turn around in the cramped space and fire crews from Lewisham and Beckenham arrived at around 4.30pm to help dig the dog out.

They remained at the scene for around two and half hours and the dog’s worried owners kept firefighters supplied with coffee as digging equipment was used to free the animal.

The terrier was eventually pulled clear and given a clean bill of health by waiting RSPCA staff.

It is understood the dog may have entered a cordoned off section of the park before becoming stuck.

Were you the dog’s owners? Did you see what happened? Call the newsroom on 01689 885732.