The Princess Bride star Cary Elwes has been treated in hospital after being bitten by a rattlesnake.

The actor, who starred as Westley in the 1987 film, thanked emergency services and shared a photo of his swollen black and blue finger after the incident in California.

“Bit not by a ROUS but a rattlesnake,” Elwes said in a post on social media on Monday, referring to a “Rodent of Unusual Size” from The Princess Bride, which co-starred Robin Wright.

“Grateful to the staff of Malibu Urgent Care, LA County Fire Dept and the staff and medical professionals at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center for their great care.

“Am recovering well thanks to all these wonderful folks.”

Elwes, 59, was working in his yard when he was bitten by the snake, according to Sky News’ US affiliate NBC.

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As well as The Princess Bride, the actor is known for playing Dr Lawrence Gordon in the Saw film series and appearing in TV shows including Stranger Things and The Marvelous Mrs Maisel.

His Stranger Things co-star Randy Havens was among those who responded to Elwes’ social media posts, writing on Instagram: “Oh my gosh Cary! Please feel better! Sending healing thoughts your way.”

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