A LAMB was rescued after becoming stuck down a 40ft deep disused quarry tunnel in the Cumbrian fells.

The RSPCA and Coniston Mountain Rescue volunteers sprang into action to shepherd the young Herdwick to safety.

Geology student Leigh Marsh was doing fieldwork at the old Ash Ghyll slate quarry when she spotted the Herdwick on the afternoon of June 11.

RSPCA inspector Victoria Westwood said: "The poor lamb had got himself in a real pickle. He was stuck down a deep tunnel inside an old quarry with very steep sides and he just couldn't get out.

"It was clear that any rescue at this deep and hazardous site would need to be carried out by people with expertise in this kind of terrain. So I contacted Mountain Rescue who arrived within an hour."

The team had to wade through water in the tunnel to get to the lamb.

Insp Westwood reunited the lamb with its owner, a local farmer.

The lamb was checked over and, despite the ordeal, did not suffer any injuries.

The RSPCA said it would like to thank Miss Marsh, who called the incident in, and everyone at Coniston Mountain Rescue. Insp Westwood said the lamb would have died if it wasn't for them.

If you see an animal you have concerns about, you can call the RSPCA's emergency line on 0300 1234 999.