A SNAKE that caused a commotion after it escaped from a house in Blackburn has been reunited with its owner.

The pine snake alarmed neighbours after being spotted in the middle of the street and hanging from under the bonnet of a car in Irving Place on Wednesday.

It was handed in to the care of the RSPCA after being grabbed by brave Fesal Javid, who was later described as the ‘hero of the day’.

The reptile, thought to be up to four-and-a-half feet long, was at first feared to be a young python.

RSPCA animal collection officer Kim Sheriff said the snake had apparently been missing for several months.

Kim said: “I am so pleased to have been able to reunite the lost snake with his owner.

“At the RSPCA we see a rise in abandoned or escaped reptiles during the summer months as they can become more active due to the warm weather.

“This snake had been missing for some time but looked to be in fair condition, which is surprising as he was apparently missing for several months before being found this week.”

Pine snakes are non-venomous and harmless and are found mainly in America.

Unaware the snake was harmless, neighbours in Irving Place mainly kept a safe distance from it until Mr Javid stepped in. It was then bundled into a bag.

Kim added: “Sadly the RSPCA is experiencing widespread neglect and abandonment of reptiles, as for many people an exotic animal represents too much of a commitment.

“We would encourage people who are thinking about taking on an exotic pet to research the needs of the particular species thoroughly.”