In a scene that could have come straight out of an Aussie wildlife series, Thames Valley Police were called to tackle a supposed crocodile sighting in the quaint English village of Cholesbury, Buckinghamshire recently. 

Officers received alarming reports of a reptilian head bobbing in floodwaters near Tring, on the border with Hertfordshire. With bravery worthy of an outback hero, the South Buckinghamshire team geared up for a face-off with a ferocious beast.

However, instead of a deadly predator, they discovered a cheeky replica crocodile head, likely bought online for a mere £6.99. It was all just a bit of fun, a good-natured prank.

Users of the police Facebook page had a laugh as the saga unfolded.

Taking it in stride, the force posted on Facebook: “Crikey! It’s not every day that you get sent to reports of a crocodile in flood water near Cholesbury. Do not be alarmed, the croc is now with us at the police station.”

They even threw in a classic dad joke: “Did you know that it is not that difficult to tell alligators and crocodiles apart? One will see you later whereas the other will see you in a while. #BadDadJokes.”

Images showed the faux croc’s head in the water and later being safely ‘detained’ at the station, much to the amusement of the public. One commenter dubbed the officer the “real Crocodile Dundee of TVP,” while another praised their bravery.

Wayne Martin added, “Hope you made it snappy getting there,” and Martyn Dehany even offered up another model croc from his local pub, saying, “There’s another one outside my local boozer if you want it.”

Rest assured, the ‘croc’ is in safe hands, and the village can return to its peaceful routine.


Pictures: Police in Buckinghamshire received alarming reports of a reptilian head bobbing in floodwaters. Credit: Facebook.com/TVP South Buckinghamshire