Cow stuck in tunnel gets rescued by firefighters

Fire service crews from Bedford, Kempston, Biggleswade and two from Northamptonshire were involved in the rescue
- Published
A cow that became trapped in a water-filled tunnel underneath the A1 has been rescued by firefighters.
Crews were called to the culvert in Mill Lane, Sandy, Bedfordshire, at 14:26 BST on Wednesday.
The female was brought back on to dry land via a bank on the River Ivel from the 21m-long (68 ft) drainage tunnel, which is situated below the river's bridle path, said Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Animal rescue specialists from both Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire helped in the operation, which took about two-and-a-half hours.

Firefighters said the rescue was challenging
The fire service said the cow was "very calm" after being moved out of the tunnel.
Once on the riverbank, the animal trotted off to return to its herd.
"It was a fantastic example of teamwork in action during this week's hot weather," the service added.

The cow was led up on to a bank on the River Ivel

People were warned to avoid the area while the cow was pulled from the river
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- Published2 days ago

- Published28 December 2025
