An elderly woman who fell down a 70ft ravine in Cornwall was saved after rescuers were led there by her pet cat.

Police said they were searching for an 83-year-old woman near Wadebridge on Saturday afternoon when a member of the public heard her cat, Piran, meowing.

That led rescuers to the victim, who had fallen down a nearby drop "with incredibly difficult access and uneven terrain" and into a stream.

Bodmin Police later wrote on social media that "Piran the cat saved the day."

The spokesperson added: "The female was located by a member of the public who had spotted the female’s cat, meowing in the corner of a large maize field near to her home.

"The elderly female had fallen approximately 70ft down a very steep embankment, with incredibly difficult access and uneven terrain.

"Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service were in attendance, along with their specialist water rescue team, Cornwall Air Ambulance, and SWAST, and the female was hoisted back up to the field on a stretcher via line rescue.

"She was then taken to hospital via the Air Ambulance in a stable condition."

Bodmin Police later added: “Whilst the lady concerned is still currently receiving care, she is in good spirits and is being well looked after.”

They also thanked a contributor named Tamar for supplying a picture of the hero cat Piran and we have been granted permission by Bodmin Police to use it here.