The deer's head had been trapped between the metal pickets of a fence near Benton Metro Station

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Firefighters have rescued a deer after it became trapped in a fence close to a Newcastle Metro station.

The roe deer had caught its head between the metal pickets of a fence in a wooded area near Benton Metro Station on Friday, June 10, and was growing increasingly distressed. Firefighters from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service’s (TWFRS) Byker station were alerted to the animal's plight and were quickly on the scene to help free it.

Using a heavy-duty forcible entry tool called a hooligan, firefighters were able to bend the pickets enough for the deer to wiggle its head out. They then waited for the RSPCA to arrive so the deer could be checked over and cared for properly before being released back into nature.

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Station Manager for Byker Community Fire Station, Jay Shepherd, said: “I want to say a huge thank you to the crew that attended and helped free the deer quickly and safely. Where it was stuck was quite close to the Metro, so, thankfully, we were able to help free it and the RSPCA was able to release it in a safer place so it did not impact the vital transport system.

“Whether it’s those on four legs or two who need our help, we will always be around to help.”

Now the RSPCA has thanked firefighters for their quick intervention and close care in rescuing the animal.

"We believe this roe deer had been running in the area at night and thought it could get through the railings but misjudged the gap," an RSPCA spokeswoman said.

“The deer was obviously terrified but luckily the matter was reported and we were called to help. We’re often called out to help deer trapped in this way and we have to be careful not to cause them stress and so we release them calmly and as quickly as possible, after being checked over.

"In this case, the deer had a bruised neck but otherwise appeared healthy and so a decision was made to release the animal in situ."

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service warned the public not to try and free a trapped wild animal themselves to avoid the risk of injuring themselves or the animal. The service said that wild animals can scratch, kick and bite when frightened, particularly if they are injured.

It advised the public to keep a safe distance and call the RSPCA cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999.

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