THERE'S SOME FIN SCARY IN THE WATER

Gran Canaria beach closed as holidaymakers spot giant shark just yards from the shoreline

- NATALIA PENZA

A GRAN Canaria beach has been closed to swimmers after a seven-foot shark terrified locals and holidaymakers.

Young girls could be heard screaming as the fish approached the shoreline at speed with its telltale fin sticking out of the water.

The alarm was raised on Melenara Beach on the island's east coast at 5pm on Saturday. Police attended as lifeguards cleared the sea and the red flag was hoisted.

Footage from the scene showed youngsters running for safety as the shark swam towards the shore before turning back at the last minute after thrashing around.

Another man was pictured with a child in his arms watching from the safety of the sand.