FIREFIGHTERS helped Thwaites shire horse Regal to his feet after he was stuck on his side for almost 17 hours.

Four stable staff tried for hours to the seven-year-old one tonne giant before they called the fire brigade yesterday morning.

Leading firefighter Tony Crook said 13 firefighters used an aerial platform ladder and other lifting equipment to raise Regal by slipping straps under his belly. The horse been showing signs of distress but when he was back on his feet a vet gave him the all clear.