Parents warned over escaped snake

Parents have been urged to warn children not to approach the serpent

Police have warned residents in Newtownabbey that a 5ft-long snake has escaped from a house.

The six-year-old Carpet Python, which is not venomous, went missing from the Abbots Gardens area.

Police said the black and dark brown reptile is believed to be harmless, but said parents should warn their children not to approach it if it is seen.

They said that police should be contacted with any sightings on 0845 600 8000.