A DOG had to be rescued from rising flood water after leaping in to the river Severn.

The young dog had jumped off the banks of the river near the pumping station in Waterworks Road, Barbourne, Worcester, at about 7pm on Tuesday.

Bob Campbell, who lives in nearby Sandys Road, said: "The dog had jumped blindly and excitedly before his owners could restrain him. He landed in about a foot of swirling muddy water, just 18 inches from the torrent racing downstream past Pitchcroft, and was luckily trapped in a mesh of brambles.

"A couple of lads went round to some houses and borrowed some ladders which they lowered down, and using a lifebelt the dog's owner went down the ladder and managed to rescue the dog.

"One local resident kept in contact with the RSPCA during the rescue and was able to advise them of a successful outcome."

Mr Campbell, who had been out for a walk when he saw the dramatic rescue, said the dog appeared to be distressed but unharmed.