A British tourist holidaying in Mexico is lucky to be alive after he was attacked by a large crocodile while playing golf at a luxurious Cancun resort.

Dougie Thompson, 58, from Scotland was chasing birdies and eagles at the Cancun golf course when the crocodile suddenly emerged from thick shrubbery and chomped down on his leg.

According to local media, the large reptile had attempted to drag the tourist back to a nearby swamp when friends came to his rescue, hitting the crocodile and running it over in the club's golf cart until it eventually retreated.

Thompson was treated at a local hospital in Cancun before being flown to Toronto for further medical treatment.

Local media reported the British tourist will require some 200 stitches on his leg and waist.

Presented by Adam Justice