An Australian man has attempted to settle an overdue utilities bill with a crude line-drawing of a spider.

David Thorne sent the picture to an administration officer along with a note explaining the content.

It read: "I do not have any money so am sending you this drawing I did of a spider instead. I value the drawing at $233.95 (£97) so trust that this settles the matter."

Employee Jane Gillies did not accept the drawing as payment, but agreed to return it to Thorne, writing in an email: "Unfortunately we are unable to accept drawings as payment and your account remains in arrears of $233.95."

Noting that his original drawing showed the spider with only seven legs, Thorne added another limb and sent it to the staff member again, adding: "I trust this will bring the matter to a conclusion."

Whilst his offer was again rejected, the picture and emailed conversation have since spread online and even attracted a joke bid of several thousands on eBay.