Police hunt 5ft boa constrictor

The snake is not thought to be a risk to the public

A pet boa constrictor has gone missing from a family home in Newcastle.

The 5ft (1.52m) snake, a Colombian rainbow species, escaped from the property in St Anthony's House, Byker, on Wednesday.

Police said the reptile, called Shakira, is not believed to be dangerous but its owner is concerned it may intimidate residents in the area.

Anyone who finds the family pet is advised to call Northumbria Police or RSPCA officers.

Sgt Paul Roberts-Bee said: "While the snake is a pet and has been brought up around children the owner is concerned it might intimidate anyone who comes across it.

"The reptile is not venomous and not thought to be a risk to the public."