BLACK Country fishermen have been warned about a blood-thirsty crocodile being on the loose at a Stourton beauty spot - but locals have already poured cold water on the story claiming it's a tall tale.

A picture of a crocodile in a fishing pool near Bells Mill Fisheries has been posted on the Black Country Match Angling Facebook page with a dire warning for anglers hoping to take advantage of one of the hottest days of the year.

Lee Andrews, who posted the picture, said: "Be careful by the horses' fields, just spotted this thing in the cut in the weeds by Bells Mill."

Crocodiles, which have been known to savagely kill humans, live throughout the tropics in Africa, Asia, the Americas and Australia.

Fishermen, who are known to exaggerate about the length of their catches and carp on about poor fish stocks, have seen other remarkable feats of nature at Bells Mill.

Mr Andrews added: "An old fella told me his rottweiler was pulled into the water by a pike last week."

Other fishermen were quick to question whether the mystery animal was a crocodile.

Adrian Andrews said: "It looks like an alligator to me."

However, several other members of the Facebook group questioned whether there was even a killer beast on the loose in the fishing pool.

Andrew Penn said: "This has to be a joke."

Trevor Newey added: "Are there any hippopotamus in there?"

Steve Keller said: "You can see the grass through its jaw, someone has robbed it out of a garden."

However, Mr Andrews was insistent it was real he said: "That's weed, it had just killed a swan, as we walked up to it we just nodded at it and walked on."

Angler Carl Stevens told the News: "I'm not going down there, why take the risk, I've been wondering why I've not caught much lately, but it makes total sense now, this crocodile has obviously eaten them all."

Bells Mills Fisheries manager Jonathan Reid "This obviously late April Fool's joke, where the picture is taken is not even in the fisheries.

"There are no problems with our fish stocks, anyone can look at Bells Mills Fisheries Facebook page to see what a great season we are having."

The Fisheries have just unveiled a brand new cafe and are attracting more walkers and anglers than ever. 

Bells Mill Fisheries website boasts: "It is a beautiful six acre carp and is is situated in a remote location on private land between the Stourbridge canal and the River Stour with wonderful views, it’s the perfect place to get away from it all, and enjoy premium fishing at its best without being miles from home.

"If you’re looking for unspoilt countryside and a peaceful venue away from the noise of modern day life, but is less than five to ten minutes from the nearest town, this is the place for you."