WORKMEN have helped to save a tawny owl from certain death while draining a reservoir between Nelson and Colne.

Contractors were set to rip out huge water tanks, which used to service the Back Lane pool’s slipway as part of a £4million project when the drama unfolded.

Engineer Chris Verity spotted the small owl at the bottom of one of the water chambers.

Eventually Chris managed to coax him to safety.

The owl was handed over to RSPB and RSPCA officials and released.