A CROWD of 50 people watched with bated breath as fire crews rescued a dog from the banks of the River Usk at Newport.

The dog was walking with his owner, who was using a mobilty scooter, when he is believed to have fallen around 10ft onto the muddy bank on Saturday just before 1pm.

Diane Atkins, of Caerleon was collected her daughter from a drama workshop at the Riverfront Theatre when she saw the crowds gathered at the water’s edge and saw an elderly dog struggling in the mud.

"I saw the dog floundering about in the mud underneath the bridge," said Mrs Atkin.

"It must have fallen off the walkway as you could see lots of footprints in the mud. It was quite scary."

Mrs Atkin, a school teacher in Bristol, said everyone applauded when a crew member was winched down and brought the dog to safety.

"It was coverd in mud and had to be hosed down but was was very happy to see its owner," she added.

The South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said the dog was rescued by one crew from Newport using lines and walkways after falling onto the bank near to the Millennium Footbridge.