The snake that was on the loose in Abbey Wood has been captured and now has a "welcome home".

On Sunday, a jogger in Woolwich Road spotted the 3ft snake on the footpath and called for other passersby to ring the police.

At the time, it was unknown what type of snake it was and where it had come from.

A crowd gathered and it was thought the snake might be a boa constrictor.

Les Osborn, who assists in the running of Belvedere Sports and Social Club, managed to snap pictures of the snake before it disappeared into the woods.

He said he and a crowd tried to keep children away from the snake because they didn't know if it was dangerous.

The snake has now been captured, and rehomed.

The man who caught the snake did not want to be named, but told News Shopper: "The snake pictured is a Royal Python, and is often called a Ball Python. He was captured Monday and is being cared for so no one needs to panic. He has been re-homed and has already had a nice meal of a rat. Panic over.

"My brother lives nearby and he received a call from his son reporting the snake near Woolwich Road. I offered to go with my brother as I have kept snakes in the past. We took an old pillowcase with us to place him in.

"I recognised it as being a Royal Python and they are renowned for being quite tame and excellent pets so there wasn’t too much to worry about. I placed it in the sack with no problems as he was cold and docile.

"We knocked on several nearby homes to see if anyone had lost a pet snake but too no avail.

"Anyway I took it home and made a makeshift home with a heat mat , bedding and water. I have now bought a vivarium to keep it warm and comfortable. At least it wasn't run over or killed by a fox."

The RSPCA confirmed they received a report of a snake on the loose in Abbey Wood on Sunday.

If you have lost a snake, email me at tom.bull@london.newsquest.co.uk