We didn't deserve to get the bird for our rescue bid

The fact is they were diligently doing their duty as laid down in the Fire and Rescue Service Act, which stipulates that our responsibilities include humanitarian services.

That takes in rescuing creatures in distress.

When this occurs our people remain available to attend any more serious life-threatening emergencies should they occur.

This, of course, is nothing new to us.

We have a long and proud tradition of rescuing, for instance, horses from rivers, cows in ditches, plus, when appropriate, the proverbial cat stuck up a tree.

This is no more than what the public expects of us and I would ask Mr Joseph: What would you expect us to do '“ ignore the calls for assistance and leave them in distress?

For the record, in order to provide a safe system of work the aerial platform was used rather than a ladder, which is why there were two vehicles at the scene.

While carrying out this operation we would seek to minimise any disruption but this has to be balanced with doing the job quickly and safely.

I hope this prevents any further ruffling of feathers.

Roy Barraclough

District Commander

West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service

Worthing Fire Station