Liverpool - A pet dog was hailed as a hero yesterday after leading rescuers to his owner who had become trapped in a muddy ditch during a walk.
Mr Ronnie Lawless (43) was exercising his mongrel, Barney, when he slipped down the 10-foot embankment injuring his neck and back. The two-year-old dog leapt into action immediately, leaving Mr Lawless's other dog with his owner before setting off on the mile long journey home to get help.
Mr Lawless was able to reach for his mobile phone to alert his fiancee Ann Downey - but he was unable to tell her exactly where he was in the fields and woods near their house on Merseyside.
After receiving the call, she set out to search for him with her daughter Amy (13) but as they left their home Barney bounded up to them and barked. He led them to where Mr Lawless lay.