Iguana walks on wild side of town

Rocky has become a common sight in Manningtree

A giant green iguana has become a familiar sight walking along the streets of an Essex town.

Antiques restorer Robert Garnett, 34, and his wife Heidi, 30, regularly take their pet iguana, Rocky, for a stroll in Manningtree after breakfast.

Nine-year-old Rocky weighs about 19lbs (7kg) and measures 4ft 6in and has been with Mr Garnett for a year.

Mr Garnett said Rocky "scampered" along the pavements, which helped keep his claws tidy.

"I don't suppose it's that different from taking a dog for a walk," he said.

"He gets a bit dirty when he's out and about so we also put him in the bath once a week," added Mrs Garnett.

"We spoil him really."

Normally found in trees in Central and South America, they live between 10 and 15 years, though they can survive for up to 20 years in captivity.