'Black panther' spotted in field in Wales

A driver believes they spotted a black panther trotting through a field - in WALES.

Video shows a large, dark shape walking up a hill in the Colwyn Bay area.

The person who captured the video - who does not want to be named - says they are "sure" it's a black panther.

Rumours that big cats roam the British countryside have been around for years.

The witness said: "It's such a privilege seeing an animal like that. I'm still over the moon about it.

"It was very exciting watching it.

"People have been talking about seeing it, then I was just driving my van and I spotted it. I just slammed on the brakes.

"Everyone who has seen the video is very sure it's a black panther.

"It's jet black and massive, with a huge tail - and it's moving as cats do.

"Apparently some black panthers were let loose in Wales in the 1970s and some pairs have bred.

"I don't think they're a risk. I hike around here all the time.

"They are very solitary animals and wouldn't go near us unless they really had to."

The introduction of the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 saw a number of big cats previously held as pets released into the wild, according to reports.

It is suggested some were released into the Welsh countryside.

The video was shot on Sunday (15/10) at 8am.