Photographer stuck in the mud

A FREELANCE photographer had to be rescued by fire crews on Sunday afternoon after getting stuck up to his waist in mud.

The 35-year-old man was taking pictures of birds at the back of Beal Valley tip, Meek Street, Higginshaw, when he became stuck in clay banks.

He was unable to phone for help but a passer-by raised the alarm.

Fire crews from Oldham and Chadderton, as well as the specialist water incident unit from Heywood were called out at 3.30pm.

The man lost his trousers as firemen used ropes to pull the man free, but officers fished them out from the mud as well!

Waiting paramedics checked him over but he did not need to go to hospital.

The fire service has warned parents to keep a look out for children playing around the area.