A MYSTERIOUS animal has been spotted prowling fields in Ryedale.

Eagle-eyed reader Michael Armitage sent us these pictures after he caught sight of what he believes could be a panther.

The 46-year-old was checking his Highways Agency gritter near Low Marishes, in Malton, when the Large Cat came into view.

York Press:

He said: "I was at the depot and looked up to see it in the fields.

"It was a nice thing to see, with its pointed ears and a tan-coloured face.

"I haven't seen anything like that before and once it left I walked over to see if there were any foot prints, but it was on the other side of a ditch and I didn't want to cross it."

Do you know what the animal is? Call Alex Ross on 01904 567156.