ANIMAL loving officers rescued a horse which was running wild on the A12.

Officers were called to the A12 near Kelvedon on Thursday morning after reports the long-faced animal had got loose on the road.

A roadblock was put in place while it was rescued and brought safely home by helpful farmers.

Essex Police released a picture of one of their officers with the runaway horse, but blurred his face to protect the shy animal's identity.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Amazing team work by the Rural Policing Team , Road Policing North and officers from Colchester Police Station.

"We received reports this morning of a horse who had strayed on to the A12 near Kelvedon causing danger to itself and road users.

"Roadblocks had to be put in place when the horse was located running along the A12 and was captured safely by some helpful farmers and returned to its relieved owner.

"The embarrassed horse wished to remain anonymous but wishes to apologise for any inconvenience it may have caused."