A SNAKE that escaped from a closed tank in the back of a car has been dubbed Houdini by its owner.

Anita Walker was taking the 4ft 6in long brown corn snake to her shop, Neata Aquatics and Reptiles, in Ramsgate, Stockton, yesterday.

Somehow it slid through the door of the tank before slithering through a one-inch gap in the car boot door.

She believes the snake escaped in Prince Regent Street because another motorist sounded the car horn, but did not realise it was missing until she got to her shop.

"They are not supposed to be able get out of these tanks but somehow it did," said Mrs Walker.

"I think once they work it out they can remember how to do it again."

Mrs Walker said she is worried about Houdini because it is so tame and it will not be able feed itself or may get run over.

"I blame myself and I will never forgive myself if anything happens to him," she said.

"People have got absolutely nothing to worry about. He is so friendly that when he is picked up he will just cuddle into your arm.

"If people do not want to touch him then I would be grateful if they could call me so that I can come and collect him."

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the snake is asked to contact Mrs Walker on (01642) 608 462.