A DRIVER made an embarrassing mistake after misreading a sign and getting stranded in a ford.

The man in his thirties had to be pulled free by firefighters after driving his BMW straight into the three feet deep water of the Land's End ford near Twyford.

After becoming stuck in his car the alarm was raised and fire crews from Reading and Wokingham rushed to the Park Lane river crossing at around 12.45pm.

Using water rescue gear firefighters waded out to free the stranded driver and bring him to safety as the water level began to rise around the car following the week's heavy rain.

The dark blue car was then towed from the water using the crews' fire engines to avoid any environmental contamination.

No one else was in the car and the driver was rescued unharmed.

Watch manager Rod Crook, of Whitley Wood fire station, said: "We would urge people to read the water signs.

"In the actual ford there are water level signs and it is measured in feet not centimetres.

"If in doubt do not go across. Just think of the resources it takes to get someone out.

"The gentleman was not hurt but a little embarrassed."