A CHINOOK has been freed six days after getting stuck in a muddy Oxfordshire field.

The twin-engined helicopter from 28 Squadron based at RAF Benson landed in a field near Wantage on Tuesday following a mechanical issue.

But the aircraft got bogged down in mud and specialist tri-service teams were called in to help the Chinook experts find a solution to free it.

Oxford Mail: Chinook stuck in the mud. Pic: RAF Benson

A number of options were considered and it was agreed that the best option would be to lift the aircraft onto a platform using two cranes.

The specialist teams worked together yesterday to prepare the ground, including laying more than 250 feet of suitable trackway for the heavy lifting equipment.

Once the equipment arrived, it was a swift process to prepare the aircraft to be moved and it was then lifted by two cranes onto the waiting platform.

Personnel were on site since Tuesday including RAF Reserves from 606 Squadron based at RAF Benson.

Engineers are now checking the aircraft, and once safe to do so it will be flown home to RAF Benson.

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Oxford Mail:

The base said on Facebook: "Given the muddy conditions and freezing weather, it has been a challenging operation to free the Chinook, particularly as we needed to ensure we didn’t damage the aircraft in doing so. 

"Once again, we extend our sincere thanks to the landowners who have been incredibly understanding throughout this process and the local community for their support."

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