A COUPLE spent four hours trying to rescue their cockatiel from a tree, without success.

Freddie escaped from its home, near North Park, Darlington, on Monday night, and is believed to be still in the area.

Owner Brenda Hall saw the bird up a tree in the park, near Zetland Street, on Tuesday, but failed to get it back.

Neighbours from Haig Street helped, by providing a ladder, but Freddie refused to budge.

Freddie, who has been seen in North Park cemetery, is grey with yellow stripes on his wings and tail, and answers with a distinctive whistle when his name is called.

Anyone who finds it is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681.