A white wallaby that has been spotted by locals across south Warwickshire over the past year has died, a local vet has announced.

Named 'Colin' by residents, the rare marsupial has been photographed and videoed frequently, becoming something of a social media celebrity.

But Rowington-based 608 Equine Vets has today announced that Colin has died after reportedly being hit by a vehicle.

A post on social media said: "Unfortunately we have some very sad news to share with you this afternoon - many of you may have heard of Colin the Wallaby, who lived locally in Warwickshire and was often spotted around the Kenilworth and Lapworth areas.

"Sadly, Colin was hit by a vehicle this morning and our vets had to put him to sleep as a result of his injuries.

"We know Colin had a lot of fans in the local community and people will miss spotting him out and about.

"Heart of England Pet Cremation Service have kindly cremated Colin and his ashes can be made available to the public for a memorial service if anyone wishes to arrange one."

With white wallabies native to Bruny Island in Tasmania it has never been established how Colin came to live near Warwick.

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The RSPCA said it was likely the wallaby had escaped from a private collection.

Nub News has reported sightings of Colin on Chase Lane, Church Lane and Rouncil Lane, and even by Warwickshire Police officers.