DRINKERS at a Watchet pub thought they'd gone down under after seeing an exotic kangaroo-like creature on the beach.

The animal, known as Michael the Mara, was around 50 yards from the Star Inn at Watchet on Tuesday evening when locals caught sight of him.

Michael - a native of the grassy pampas of Argentina - had escaped from exotic animal centre Tropiquaria in Washford Cross.

Keith Fairbrother, pub landlord, said he originally thought Michael was a wallaby.

"I had to explain to the emergency serives that I wasn't taking the mickey when I told them there was a wallaby outside", he said.

Chris Moiser, owner of Tropiquaria said they were aware of Michael's escape prior to his rescue.

"There was a bit of a crowd and the coastguard were exceedingly helpful in getting him back," he said.

Michael was eventually rescued with the aid of a net and a ladder and is currently recuperating in isolation at the centre.

Mr Moiser said: "We do not know how he got out, but he has been walkabout previously. He was one of a group of 11 maras who went travelling on the day his bits' were being removed.

"He feels the need to wander on occasions."