Shoppers watched on as the RSPCA and firefighters rescued a “freezing” fox from Watford's pond this morning.

Just before 11am today (January 16), the RSPCA and Herts Fire and Rescue were called to The Parade with reports that the animal had become trapped on an island in the pond.

One engine from Garston fire station arrived in the town centre to assist with the rescue.

The crew used their ladder to help an RSPCA officer retrieve the fox. It was placed in a cage and shuffled back along the ladder, from the island to the mainland, while shoppers watched on.

A fire service spokesperson said: “We are happy to assist in animal rescues when we are available and able to do so.

“Our firefighters have the training and the specialist equipment and sometimes we are the only organisation who can safely rescue animals.

“These calls can also provide real life training opportunities, giving firefighters a chance to use specialist equipment to carry out rescues.

“However, our crews will always prioritise incidents which involve any risk to humans.”

A member of the public who filmed the rescue speculated that the “muddy, wet, and probably freezing” fox may have become trapped after ice broke while it walked across.

The RSPCA has also been contacted for comment. Update to follow.