STUNNED Alison Windle could only watch in panic as firefighters dismantled her brand-new car to free a puppy trapped in the engine.

She had just parked the Ford Ka - bought only last week - at her place of work, Food Hygiene Systems in Accrington, when she saw the dog running around the yard.

Alison and a colleague tried to catch the frightened collie cross but it hurtled for shelter under the car.

Even chocolate couldn't tempt out the dog which looked like it had not eaten for days

The mischievous mutt then went one step further and clambered in between the engine's pipes and cogs. Sales administration assistant Alison, 25, of Mill Hill, Blackburn, said: "When I lifted the bonnet all we could see was this little face looking up.

"We called the RSPCA and they phoned the fire brigade. They had to take part of the engine to bits. I couldn't believe it.

Firefighters with help from the RAC spent 45 minutes removing parts of the engine to free the terrified mongrel. RAC staff then put the engine back together and tested the car to make sure it was roadworthy.

The tan-coloured bitch, named Flossie by RSPCA staff, will be up for adoption. Call 01254 231118 if you can give her a home.

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