A SPANIEL was saved in a major rescue operation after the keen canine explorer got trapped on a riverside cliff.

Bracken was with his family at their Wyeside home when he became stuck on the rock face at the bottom of their garden and his family could not reach him, requiring emergency assistance.

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and Severn Area Rescue Association Beachley’s rope rescue and lifeboat teams were called out to the cliffs at Sedbury near Chepstow around 3pm on Saturday (January 17).

A total of 25 participants took part in the 90-minute operation which saw a firefighter lowered down to safely collect the pup.

A SARA Beachley spokesperson said: “Young Bracken got carried away exploring the bottom of his garden and then couldn't get back and the owners couldn't reach him.

“SARA Lifeboat 3 was also launched and stood by on the river below as a backup plan, but was then stood down. Many thanks and well done to all who responded.”

Praise has been given to the rescue teams involved, including sister teams from SARA, local residents and social media users.

One social media user commented: “Well done to everyone involved. Lovely to see the dog safe and reunited with his owner.”

Another said: “Great rescue everyone, love a happy ending.”

The local cliffs overlooking the river, which include nearby Wintours Leap, are renowned among rock climbers.

Spaniels, originally bred as hunting dogs, are regarded as curious explorers with a strong instinct to roam.

Owners of spaniels on social media reiterated this, joking “had to be a spaniel!”.

The pooch is reported to be doing well and in good spirits following the incident.

Owner, David Trevelyan, told the BBC he wanted to reassure the public that Bracken is absolutely fine and no worse for his experience.