TODDLER Shaun Hunkin had a 12-inch rod from an old washing machine hooked to the back of his throat.

The mischievous 16-month-old tot stared death in the face after he decided to explore the garage at his Earnshaw Drive home on Monday.

His mum Helen heard his screams and dashed to find her son covered in blood, with a 12-inch rod - a part from an old washing machine - sticking out of this mouth.

Helen said: "I immediately pounced on him. He was coughing up blood and I couldn't dislodge the rod because the one-inch hook on the end of it was lodged in the back of his throat.

"I was sure he was going to die.

"He was crying so loudly and he couldn't breathe properly."

Brave Shaun was rushed to Chorley and South Ribble District Hospital and later transferred to the Royal Preston Hospital.

Fortunately for the adventurous youngster, the rod worked itself free as he was being driven to Preston.

"It all took place so quickly and was over in about two hours. But I really thought he was going to die.

"He had so much blood over him and he couldn't work the rod free. I was so frightened.

"Looking at him now, you would never know anything had happened.

"He is back to his usual, mischievous self, if not a little quiet.

"I think he is more bemused by all the attention he is getting now. It was all such a nightmare."

Mrs Hunkin added that she was making it a top priority to get a new washing machine, preferably one where the bits don't fall off!

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