Kirei the overweight pooch became stuck in brambles while out on a walk - and had to be rescued by firefighters.

Owners Bob and Patricia Bullard were bemused when their pet disappeared near Mill Pond in Steyning.

They discovered the disorientated spaniel had got caught in thick brambles and could not move forwards or backwards.

The troubled couple, from Ashford in Surrey, called in firefighters to help.

Half an hour later, Kirei was reunited with her delighted owners.

Sub Officer Keith Strivens said: "The problem was getting to the dog through the thick brambles - she just couldn't move and it took about 15 minutes to cut her free.

"She's a lovely old dog, though a bit overweight, which might have contributed to the problem."