A dead snake was found inside a rubbish bag in Airdrie.

The Scottish SPCA was alerted on Wednesday, June 11, after the eight foot long carpet python was discovered beside a bin on Calderbank Road, near to the junction for Brownsburn Road.

Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, "At this stage we don't know whether the snake was still alive when it was put into the bin bag.

"It doesn't have any obvious injuries and we are now awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination, which will hopefully determine how and when this creature died.

"If anyone recognises this snake and knows who may have owned it we would urge them to contact us as soon as possible."

Anyone with information should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.