Corn snake discovered by Middlesbrough refuse collectors

Corn snakes can grow up to about 6ft (1.8m) in length

Refuse collectors on Teesside have found a snake behind a bin while doing their rounds.

The 2ft (60cm) snake was discovered as the Streetscene workers removed waste from a bin in a town centre alley.

Middlesbrough Council's pest control manager Chris Hudson identified the reptile as a snow or albino corn snake.

The non-venomous creature was safely removed and is now in a vivarium in a local pet shop while its owner is sought.

Mr Hudson said: "It was curled up behind a bin when I found it. I am used to dealing with rats and mice, wasps and bed bugs, so a snake is very unusual."

Anyone who believes the snake is theirs is asked to contact the council's pest control service.

Corn snakes are a North American species that constricts their small prey.