Residents shocked after a python was found outside a block of flats

Officers nicknamed the snake Monty as they waited for his owner to claim him. Credit: MEN Media

A python is in police custody after being found near a block of flats in Greater Manchester.

Police say the "slippery character" was spotted rising from a grid outside Shorecliffe Rise in Whitefield, Bury.

It is understood the snake was rescued from the grid and placed in a cardboard box by residents and an off-duty police officer.

GMP Whitefield posted a photo of the scene, off Radcliffe New Road, and green and black suspect on Twitter, writing: “Midday - Shorecliffe Rise Whitefield and python seen to rise from the grid outside. Detained by residents and off duty police officer."

Police later said they had received a call from the owner of the snake, which they had christened Monty, and the Python is to be reunited with them.