MOT testers find snake under van bonnet

Mechanics must find plenty of things which require attention when putting the nation's hard-working vans through their annual check-up, but none would expect to find anything as unusual as a stowaway snake.

Employees at a West London garage made the startling discovery while performing the final checks under the bonnet of a van that was in for its MOT. The black rat snake, which thankfully turned out to be not venomous, was presumably an escaped pet that sought out the invitingly warm engine bay as a cosy place for a nap.

Until its rightful owner comes forward, it is being held at a local animal rescue centre.