FIVE sheep trapped on a cliff face in Bude have been rescued by the RSPCA.

The sheep, who had been stuck for several days, were spotted half way down the steep cliff, unable to move out of danger as they precariously balanced on a steep ledge looming over the sea below.

RSPCA chief inspector Richard Abbott, who led the eight-strong rescue team made up of officers from the charity, said: “Temperatures were well below freezing, and we knew with the snow forecast we had to do everything we could to ensure the five sheep were successfully rescued before the blizzards hit.

“We were able to set up on the cliff above the sheep before descending over the cliff face till we were beneath the sheep so we were able to move upwards towards them.

“Thankfully we were able to catch them and then lift them back to the top of the cliffs in bags before we successfully reunited the sheep with the farmer.”

If anyone spots an animal in distress, call the RSPCA’s 24-hour helpline on 0300 1234999. To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care, visit www.rspca.org.uk/give