Beavers saved from drowning in Frome storm drain

The animals were stuck in a meter of dirty water in Frome

A pair of beavers have been saved from drowning in an overflow drain.

Rescuers were called to reports of an otter trapped in a metre of water in Frome, Somerset, on Friday but on arrival were surprised to find two beavers.

The UK's largest rodent, beavers were released into the wild in Somerset as part of a reintroduction programme.

Matt Lavy, from Secret World Wildlife Rescue, said they were "bigger than you expect and really quite heavy".

The creatures, which were rescued at about 15:00 BST, are thought to be last year's young.

Care assistant Mr Lavy described the experience as an "incredible encounter".

"It's always a privilege to see wildlife up close, but [I was] never expecting to see something like that."

Rescuers were alerted to the trapped animals by a member of the public

The Somerset-based wildlife rescue centre said it was important to get the animals out "as quickly as possible" as they were at risk of drowning.

A spokesperson explained one of the beavers appeared to have been trapped for longer than the other, as it was much weaker.

The creatures were secured in metal cages and taken to RSCPA West Hatch in Taunton, which has experience working with beavers.

They were settled in a pen and will remain there while they undergo rehabilitation.

Each of the beavers weighs about 15kg