A crocodile bit a veteran trainer in front of terrified spectators in Thailand.

The beast named Cola clamped its jaws around the arm of trainer Sumeth Thongmuan, 51, during a performance at a zoo in Nakhon Sawan province on November 23.

Sumeth twisted and flailed on the floor to free himself from the crocodile's maw, and managed to escape with his arm intact thanks to his decade of experience.

Somkiat Suebsin, an emcee for the show, said: 'I saw the attack happen while I was doing the narration. Cola suddenly snapped its jaws and trapped Sumeth's right hand while he was doing a 'Superman' trick, shocking both the audience and the staff.

'Fortunately, he had his wits about him and he freed himself.'

Somkiat added it was not the first time Sumeth had been injured by a crocodile, as another one had broken his arm years ago.

Sumeth was rushed to the hospital and had to get 10 stitches. The medical bill reached up to 30,000 THB (around 835 USD).

Cola and its fellow croc Fak Thong, both six years old, were trotted out for the last show at the crocodile park. The routine proceeded as usual until Cola unexpectedly shut its jaws down on the experienced trainer.

Despite the shocking attack, it was business as usual at the establishment, which remained open. Crocodile shows also resumed without issue as other trainers were still available.

Meanwhile, Sumeth had returned to his hometown and will wait for his wounds to heal before coming back for work, Somkiat said.