A DOG was at the centre of a dramatic water rescue after it jumped into a reservoir.

Gun dog Oakley had lost his way in Elton Reservoir, Bury, prompting his walker — a friend of the owner — to call for the assistance of the emergency services.

Fire crews from Bury and Whitefield attended shortly after 9pm on Sunday, supported by the specialist inshore rescue boat from Heywood and the technical response unit from Ashton.

Firefighters waded knee-deep into the water and, following an intense 15 minutes, the five-year-old pooch was guided out by torchlight.

Crews have issued a warning, urging residents not to go into the water after their pets.

Steve Wilcock, watch manager at Bury Fire Station, said: "There were concerns that the dog walker was going to follow the dog into the water so this became a risk to life.

"There was a big response because water can be a very dangerous environment. People can very easily drown.

"The dog had been in the water for about one hour when we arrived. It could not find its way out.

"There was high drama for about 15 minutes as we carried lights and other equipment down to the water's edge.

"Thankfully we were able to entice the dog out using torches so it was a happy ending.

"It was very wet and tired but thankfully safe. The woman was very relieved. She had sustained a nasty injury to her head where she had been battling the undergrowth to reach the dog."

The woman, who is believed to be in her 40s, did not require medical attention.

Crews remained at the site for about 30 minutes.