The Wye Valley is known all over the world for its rich variety of flora and fawna, but a Penallt man has spotted something not native to these parts.

Businessman John Funnell was driving along the Wye Valley road away from his father's farm in Penallt last Tuesday (17th May) with his wife Harriet when he saw the animal.

"I was just about to turn left towards the bridge for St Briavels when I saw it about 20 feet in front of the car," said John.

"It was a panther. It walked across the road and jumped six feet over a bank into the woods. This was in daylight, at about 9.10pm."

For full story see Beacon 25/05/11.