Crews from three fire stations, including a specialist water rescue boat squad, were called out this weekend to rescue a cow from the River Thames.

Firefighters from Marlow and High Wycombe responded to the unusual task after reports from people on the bank in Medmenham that the animal had become trapped in the water on Saturday afternoon.

After searching the banks near where the cow was last spotted, crews called in the Water Rescue Unit from Beaconsfield, which searched the water.

Marlow crew commander Dave James, who attended the scene, said they believe the animal managed to get out on its own.

And the firefighter said the unorthodox rescue mission is typical of the varied role he and his colleagues are asked to perform. 

He said: “The boat went to where the cow was seen and carried out a search in the location but could not locate it.

“It looked like the cow had managed to rescue itself, it was a hot day and it had probably gone to the river to cool down.

“If you asked me to list the job description of a firefighter, it would be anything and everything. I don’t think there can be an accurate description it’s so varied.”