TWO horses have been rescued and one person taken to hospital after becoming stuck in mud at Moreton Shore.

Emergency services were called at around 10.25am today (Saturday, April 13) following reports that two horses had become stuck in mud.

On arrival crews found two horses stuck in mud around 300m from the shore.

One of the horses had managed to free itself.

The other was released after help from RNLI volunteers and Coastguard officers and is currently being assessed by a vet.

Three people were also assessed at the scene by paramedics and one has been taken to hospital for further checks.

RNLI hovercraft crew member Ian Farrall has experience of working with horses, he said: "Considering the ordeal the horse had been through, its behaviour was exceptional in what was clearly a distressing situation.

"The emergency service teams worked really well together, pooling their resources and experience to ensure a good outcome in very difficult circumstances.

"Walking and horse riding is a safe activity most of the time but it is important to be aware of the risks.

"The sand and mud around the Wirral coast can be dangerous and coastal conditions can change over time.

"We would advise horse riders and walkers to check local safety notices and to always carry a means of calling for help. If you get into difficulty on the coast, or see someone else in difficulty, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard."