AN ANIMAL rescue expert based in Lyndhurst rushed to a home in Hampshire after a resident found a two-foot snake.

Firefighters were called to a home in Heron Wood Road, Aldershot on the afternoon of Friday, August 9 after a homeowner found the snake in the larder.

Despite the frightening size of the reptile, it was quickly discovered that the creature was just a grass snake.

It was taken outside with 'snake sticks' and a pillow case by RSPCA inspectors, who worked with New Forest-based animal rescue advisor Paul Rance.

The reptile was not hurt. It was returned to its natural habitat.