Motorists warned of camel on the loose

Motorists, accustomed to the occasional potential hazard caused by horses wandering on the roads of the country, were today put on alert for a stray camel or llama.

The AA’s Roadwatch service issued the warning after the animal was spotted on Ireland’s N80 route in Co Offaly.

A spokesman said: ‘‘It looks as though Lawrence of Arabia has come to Offaly this morning. There is still a camel apparently on the loose on the road between Tullamore and Clara, although there is now a debate raging as to whether it is a camel or a llama.

‘‘We will leave that to somebody else more expert.’’

Gardai were investigating the possibility that the animal has escaped from a circus or other establishment.

Early reports indicated no major problems for drivers in the area.