Cotswold rescue centre saves ducklings from slurry pit (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Cotswold rescue centre saves ducklings from slurry pit

9:33am Tuesday 22nd June 2010 in News By Andrea Glennon

VOLUNTEERS from the Oak and Furrows Wildlife Rescue Centre demonstrated their dedication when eight tiny ducklings became trapped in a slurry pit.

The three volunteers, Leanne Price, Tasha Bawtree and Kez Brumsitt showed no fear as they climbed into the thigh high slurry pit full of cows manure.

They attended the scene on farmland in Ampney St Mary on Friday after a farmer reported that the ducklings had become trapped.

Deputy manager Laura McAllister said she thinks the ducklings' mother accidentally led them into the pit.

"Our volunteer driver Kez was the first to go into the disgusting slurry pit, which was enormous and absolutely stank," she said.

"I am so proud of my team and it just shows the dedication that we have to animals in need."

Two of the ducklings died as a result of inhaling too much of the slurry fumes. The other six are currently being cared for by the team and are expected to be released into the wild.