AN iguana that went missing for three weeks was found yesterday morning - 35ft up on a neighbour's roof.

The 3ft reptile, called Louis, lives at West Road, Loftus, east Cleveland, and was found by Glenda and Geoffrey Robinson.

Mrs Robinson said: "It was a complete shock. I had no idea that anyone had an iguana round here," she said.

Mrs Robinson called the RSPCA and their John Fuller was soon on the scene. He realised the creature was too high for him to reach, so he called the fire brigade which arrived in minutes.

Firefighters went up a ladder with Mr Fuller's pet carrier and rescued Louis.

Once on the ground, he was safely restored to his owners Steven Barnes and Teresa Richards, who bought him seven years ago.

Louis was unharmed but is currently a pale grey colour due to his exposure.