Fox released into wild after being impaled on fence

The fox was rescued after he tried to jump a metal fence, which went through the muscle of his leg

A fox found impaled on a metal fence has been released back into the wild after he was nursed back to health.

Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital said the animal was rescued after he tried to jump over the fence, but became stuck when a large spike went through the muscle of his back left leg.

The charity then set up a fund to pay for his vet bills, which raised more than £800 and helped fund his food and stay at the hospital.

A hospital spokesman has said they were "so incredibly pleased" after the fox was released back into the wild on Friday as it "hasn't been an easy journey for him".

The charity thanked the fire service for helping rescue the fox and Oadby Vets for Pets for removing the metal fence

The hospital spokesperson said an X-ray taken following the rescue in Westfield Road on 17 January had confirmed no bones had been broken.

But they added: "It hasn't been an easy journey for him and his chances of survival, and making a full recovery were always guarded."

However, the fox then "improved daily" in the weeks that followed and his damaged leg muscle healed.

"Our team are so incredibly pleased that he got to the point of release," the spokesperson said.

"This certainly was a special moment to watch."

The hospital has thanked Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, which helped rescue the animal, and Oadby Vets for Pets for removing the metal fence.

"Without both of these amazing teams, we wouldn't have been able to rehabilitate this fox back to full health," the spokesperson added.

The charity also thanked people for their "heartwarming" support and help to raise funds for the fox's veterinary care.