RIP Claude: Firefighters’ warning after 30-year-old horse spooked by fireworks in Newport has to be put to sleep

Firefighters who were called to rescue a horse that had been scared by fireworks and was put down as a result have urged people planning to set them off to think about animals nearby.

Newport’s fire and rescue crew described the incident on Sunday morning (Nov 3) as “traumatic” for all involved after 30-year-old Claude became stuck in his stable, unable to get up.

His owner, Claire Entwistle, had brought him in from the field as a precaution as horses that are spooked by loud noises can run in blind panic, risking injury as they gallop about or run into fencing. But, sadly, it was not enough to stop him becoming frightened.

Warning people planning to use fireworks to let horse owners nearby know, Newport fire station posted details of its rescue on Facebook in “consideration of animals like Claude”.

“Claude was a 30-year-old horse and full of life. Claude was scared by fireworks and in a frantic state he ended up in a position he couldn’t get up from.

“Crews from Newport and [Essex County Fire and Rescue Service’s] animal rescue unit from Chelmsford responded [and] worked hard to get Claude out of the stable and into the field.

“Unfortunately, Claude didn’t have the strength to get up after being exhausted and in an uncomfortable position.

“All the crew from Newport are thinking of Claire and her family at this difficult time…This type of incident sticks with everyone involved. So please, if you’re planning on having fireworks, let your neighbours know.”

Claire posted a personal thank you to the fire crew who went out to Claude, who was a familiar sight on the bridleways around Clavering and Newport.

She wrote: “It is the dilemma of all horse owners whether to stable or keep a horse out at grass during the fireworks season. This time I chose wrongly.

“The kindness and consideration shown by the crew was amazing and I will always be grateful, but unfortunately, once extracted from the stable, the attending vet advised Claude should be euthanised.

“RIP Claude, a fantastic partner in many adventures.”