POLICE have issued a warning that a potentially venomous snake is on the loose in the borough.

The public are advised to be vigilant following reports a snake has escaped from an address in Ilford.

It was reported on Wednesday that the reptile had escaped from an address in Belgrave Road after it was taken into the back garden up to three days before.

It is usually kept in a tank inside the property.

Officers do not have a specific description of the snake but it has been suggested it may be a coral snake.

The coral snake is known to be venomous and its bite can prove fatal.

Police have said that if confronted by humans, however, the snake is more likely to flee and it is thought to only bite as a last resort.

Officers are conducting searches of the wider area and have been liaising with the RSPCA and experts from London Zoo to learn more about the species and find out where it is likely to seek refuge.

Safer Neighbourhood Teams are also patrolling the surrounding streets, speaking with residents and handing out leaflets.

Members of the public are advised not to approach or attempt to touch the snake if spotted but to call 999 immediately.