A MUM was horrified after she opened a tin of baked beans to find what she described as a 'creature' inside.

Donna Marie Frater, 36, had been preparing tea for her little girl when she came across the large and scaly lump which she believed was some kind of animal.

The hairdresser, of Peterlee, County Durham, said: "I got the shock of my life. I didn't dare get too close and was worried in case it was still alive.

"I started screaming, and all the kids were going 'ugh, that's horrible'.

"I took a picture of it and put it on Facebook to see if anyone could help identify it.

"I have no idea what it is but know I will never eat baked beans again."

Branston said the mass is believed to be mould.

A spokesperson said: "We are speaking with Donna to get more information so we can investigate her complaint.

"It would appear to be mould that has developed due to damage to the can resulting in a small perforation that has allowed air to enter – this being an extremely rare occurrence.

"We will advise Donna once our investigation is completed and sincerely apologise for any concern this has caused."