Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 31st March 2025, at 16:05hrs

A heartwarming tale of canine capers and community spirit unfolded in Clitheroe this week, as a distressed dog, Jess, was safely returned to her grateful owners after a daring escape.
Ribble Valley neighbourhood officers, conducting routine enquiries, spotted Jess in a state of distress on Woone Lane, heading perilously close to the busy Whalley Road.
With the dog’s safety paramount, PC Boast sprang into action, giving chase with what can only be described as “gazelle-like” agility.
Jess, however, proved to be a nimble escape artist. She veered off the main road and onto a residential estate, before darting behind a property and into a vast, bramble-ridden wasteland – described by officers as being “the size of Wales” in jest.
Despite the tempting offers of a meat pie and a less appealing trip to Greenbank custody, Jess remained determined to explore her newfound wilderness. She burrowed deeper into the thick brambles, eventually settling down for a rest in the middle, seemingly exhausted and disoriented.
The situation required a collaborative effort. Local landscape gardeners and helpful members of the public joined forces with the officers, navigating the thorny terrain to reach the distressed dog.
After a delicate rescue operation, Jess was safely extracted from her bramble fortress.
Reunited with her relieved owners, Jess appeared to be in good health, albeit a little worse for wear.
A quick nap in the car confirmed her exhaustion from her unexpected adventure.
“Apart from a few bumps and scrapes Jess appeared to be in good health after her little adventure,” reported PC Boast.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dedication of local officers and the power of community collaboration in ensuring the safety of all creatures, great and small.