Snake is alive and well

'Pet Stop' owner Valerie Greenwood is now appealing for information to find the owner of the 'Black Racer', which was handed into her premises by a vet outside the city. The snake was found on May 23 in the Nelson Drive area before being given to Drumahoe Veterinary Clinic to be checked over. The slithery serpent made it's way to Limavady after the clinic asked Mrs Greenwood to look after the snake until the owner could be found.

"He was very hungry when he got here so we think he may have been out for a long time before being found," explained Mrs Greenwood. "He is very distinguishable so hopefully someone will recognise him."

Eddie Campbell, owner of Drumahoe Veterinary Practice says the snake was handed over to the clinic in a lunchbox by police after being found in Derry. He added that the creature, which is about two foot in length, could have left its enclosure to bask in the good weather. The PSNI says the snake was handed over by a member of the public on Sunday, May 23. They reappealed for information regarding the snake's owner.

A PSNI spokesperson said: "A 'Black Racer' snake (North American, non-venomous) was found by a member of the public in the Caw area on Sunday morning (May 23rd). The snake is currently being cared for however police are keen to identify the owner. If you believe this is your snake please contact Strand Road on 08456008000 quoting reference CCS 718 23/05/10."