AN RSPCA officer has labelled helping two badgers trapped on a ladder in a Torfaen canal as “the most bizarre and unusual” day in her 15 years on the frontline.

The animal welfare charity teamed up with firefighters to help two badgers who had got stuck between metal steps and the wall in a lock in Pentre Lane, on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal in Cwmbran.

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RSPCA Cymru was called, with rescue officer Sian Burton and inspector David Milborrow rushing to the scene. They enlisted the support of the fire service as they sought to help the trapped badgers.

A ‘large animal’ rescue team from the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended, and abseiled down the lock wall.

Inspector Milborrow got hold of one of the badgers using a grasper - while firefighters held nets below him. The second badger jumped into the water as the first was rescued.

However, the badger then - amazingly - climbed up the ladder and into reach of the grasper, where he was also pulled to safety.

Both badgers have now come into the care of the RSPCA for a period of rehabilitation before an anticipated return to the wild.

Ms Burton said: “Without doubt, this was the most bizarre and unusual day of my 15 years spent on the frontline for animals.

“Both badgers are a bit rough, and have some cuts - so have come into our care for some rehabilitation. We really hope we can release them back to the wild soon.”