Man bitten by King Cobra snake is stable

Mark O'Shea is a reptile expert and has handled many snakes before Credit: West Midlands Safari Park

A snake-handler who was bitten by a king cobra snake is reported to be in a comfortable and stable condition in hospital.

Mark O'Shea, an author and television presenter from Shropshire, was bitten on the leg by the reptile at West Midlands Safari Park yesterday afternoon.

He was airlifted to Worcestershire Royal Hospital as a precaution as venom can be lethal if it enters the bloodstream.

He was assessed as being stable and suffering no serious effects from the bite.

Mr Lawrence added:

Mr O'Shea remains in hospital.