Morning traffic in Teabridge came to an unexpected halt this week after Gerald the Duck decided to sit in the middle of Market Street during rush hour.
The large white duck appeared shortly after 8am and remained firmly in the road despite several attempts by motorists to drive around him.
Witnesses say Gerald responded by moving directly in front of whichever vehicle attempted to pass.
Traffic eventually stopped completely.
Employees from Hargreaves Bakery attempted to lure him towards the pavement using pieces of cheese scone.
The operation was eventually successful.
Gerald has developed something of a reputation in Teabridge.
Last autumn he wandered into the Teabridge Building Society and reportedly remained in the foyer for most of the afternoon.
Nobody has successfully established who owns him.
Local resident Martin Fletcher said: “I don’t think anyone owns Gerald. Gerald owns Teabridge.”
The entire incident lasted approximately fourteen minutes.
Gerald was later seen heading towards the river.