THIS IS ESSEX (UK) 22 May 06 Burglar's snake shock (James Burrows)
A burglar escaped after coming face-to-face with a grouchy 10ft-long snake.
The intruder got more than he bargained for after breaking into what seemed to be an ordinary garden shed in Colchester.
Expecting to find a lawnmower or a bicycle, the burglar walked straight into the den of a boa constrictor.
Owner Mike Saunders, 55, of Defoe Crescent, Mile End, was getting ready for bed at about midnight on Saturday when he heard a terrified shriek coming from the garden.
Insp John Hayter, of Colchester police, said: "It would have been an interesting situation had the occupant of the shed detained the burglar for us."
The raider was described as aged 18 to 25, and 5ft 7ins tall. He wore a white hooded top.
Information to police on 01206 762212.
Burglar's snake shock