'Pawwfect' ending for dog after icy lake rescue

Call handler Beth met Bilbo after helping him through his icy ordeal

A dog which fell through ice and had to be rescued by fire crews has visited them with his owner to show his appreciation to them.

Bilbo was on walkies in Melton Mowbray Country Park, Leicestershire, on 22 November when he fell into the water of a lake, about 30m (33yds) from the embankment.

Melton fire crews and a technical rescue team from Leicester used an inflatable sled to bring him to safety.

The pet was taken to a vet and, after making a full recovery, visited Southern station in Leicester to meet some of his rescuers - and the call handler who took the 999 call.

The fire service said it was a “pawwfect” ending to the incident - but warned dog owners to keep their pets on leads near cold water and ice during the winter.

It was smiles all round when Bilbo went to say thank you to fire crews in Leicester

“It was great to see Bilbo running around happy - a wufferly and pawwfect ending in this instance," a spokesperson said.

“However, for all you dog lovers out there, although the water and ice may look inviting, in cold weather it is extremely dangerous.

“Please stay safe.”