NORTH Cornwall residents have been trying to identify a creature which has washed up in Bude.

Local resident Elaine spotted a large translucent sea creature during a walk on Summerleaze Beach in Bude this weekend (Sunday, February 22).

The marine animal, which looks like a cross between a jellyfish and an octopus, has led to much discussion among locals regarding what species it is.

Speaking to the Post Elaine said: “I was out walking my dogs like we do everyday, it was a lovely sunny day.”

As she was walking, one of her dogs Huwie, alerted her to the creature.

“It was right in the centre, almost halfway from the grid where the sea pool water outlet is and the breakwater. The tide was almost out so had been there a while,” she explained. “It was definitely a surprise find as I’ve never seen anything like it before, so I was pretty amazed by it! I did wonder why it hadn’t attracted a bigger audience.”

Many believe it to be a barrel jellyfish, which is one of the largest species of jellyfish found in UK seas.

The Wildlife Trust explained: “They are translucent with a huge mushroom shaped bell and a bunch of eight frilly tentacles below. They don't have marginal tentacles, but do have a violet fringe around the bell. They are often found washed up on beaches in May and June.”