Police officers became cowboys when they rescued two horses from the A12 near Marks Tey.

Essex Police were called to the northbound carriageway at around 5.45pm yesterday to reports of a foal and heavily pregnant mare on the busy road.

Officers put a rolling road block in place to hold back the traffic while Detective Superintendent Stuart Hooper and Pc Jac Dean led the animals to safety.

The quick-thinking officers used their uniform belts as makeshift harnesses to help lead the horses off the dual carriageway.

Pc Dean said: “The police officer’s belt always comes in handy, although this was a novel use for it.

“This incident could have ended tragically because the horses were on a very busy road and close to the railway line.

“But thankfully they have now found a safe home.

“I would urge all owners to check the security of their paddocks regularly to make sure their horses remain safe.”