CONSIDERED by some to be attractive creatures, they make good pets.

But that is not what the average shopper would think if one appeared in a car park.

This 5ft Columbian rainbow boa constrictor - closer to home slithering along a jungle floor - caused something of a stir when it turned up in Fatfield, Washington, at the weekend. Now police are anxious to trace the owners of the pet which was making a dash for freedom.

Police officers were called to a car park in Shepherd's Way on Saturday afternoon when a member of the public discovered the snake.

Braver people would have shuddered at the thought of venturing anywhere near the creature.

But it just so happened that the officer responding used to be a veterinary nurse.

PC Angela Hartas found a box, popped the snake in, and called the RSPCA.

The snake was taken to the Reptile Trust in Burnopfield, County Durham.

The police spokesman said: "We believe the snake is a lost pet. It is not poisonous and we are appealing for the owner to come forward.

"The snake prefers hotter climes and has being warming up at the Reptile Trust. It seems to be doing well."