A PARROT has left his North-East owners in a flap by fleeing the nest.

Jabba, an African Grey parrot, flew away in Sedgefield, County Durham, while being taken for a breath of fresh air on a lead.

Owner Janet Stubbings said: "My five-year-old had him on a lead and harness. He flapped his wings and the lead fell out of the little boy's hand, and the parrot flew away.

"My ten-year-old daughter is absolutely devastated. We haven't had him very long and he is only young. He could have flown off anywhere. We're very worried."

She added: "If anyone saw him he would be quite memorable because he is wearing a lead and harness.

"We have got people searching for him all over Sedgefield and I have reported it to the police."

Jabba is about the size of a crow and grey all over with a red tail. He was wearing a yellow lead and harness when he flew away.

Mrs Stubbings said she was offering a reward for the safe return of Jabba.

Anyone who spots him should phone her on (01740) 620281.