SHOPPERS got a bit of sssssurprise in CrownGate yesterday (Friday) as royalty was in attendance.

A royal python, that is, which was greeting shoppers as part of the Worcester Festival.

The python belongs to Central England Reptile Rescue and Bird of Prey Sanctuary, which was displaying its reptiles and lizards, including tortoises and lizards.

Donations were made to the centre, in Redditch, and two geckos even found a new loving home.

A spokeswoman for the centre said: "It's been really great, and certainly a lot of interest in the animals which is what it's all about.

"The python is great with people and has been handled by young and old today. There's been a lot of interest in all the animals though."

The centre is well accustomed with Worcester, as for the last 18 years its birds, including owls, have been on display at the Cathedral Plaza.

Today (Saturday) the birds will return once again for their 19th year in the city. People can visit the birds at CrownGate from 10am until 5pm.

For more information on the centre visit cerr.co.uk