A snake abandoned in its vivarium has been found by walkers who were looking for a missing bulldog.

The snake was discovered last night in its enclosure at the base of the cliffs in Ramsgate near Royal Harbour Approach.

It was passed into the care of the RSPCA this morning who found around five shed skins in the set up.

RSPCA's Isle of Thanet branch believe it to be a Kingsnake, which they say would not have lasted long in sub-zero temperatures.

The species originates in USA and Mexico and is non-venomous.

Clive Martin, of Thanet's RSPCA, said: "It is a very unusual case; the set-up isn't cheap at all.

"It's very peculiar as someone has taken the time to go out and abandon the snake in its vivarium.

"There were about five shed skins in the enclosure, so it hadn't been cleaned out in a while.

"It will be passed onto specialist care after the weekend, but we're asking anyone with information to let us know.

"We think we're looking for a black car but CCTV is being looked at.

"People keeping exotic animals and reptiles is becoming more and more of a problem as it's not regulated properly."

The branch are asking for anyone with information to get in touch.

A post of Thanet's RSPCA Facebook page said: "We are appealing for information after a (what we believe to be) Kingsnake was found overnight.

"It had been abandoned, in its vivarium, at the base of the cliffs between Ramsgate harbour and the artificial beach.

"This beautiful snake would not have lasted long in sub zero temperatures.

"Do you recognise the set up? Please private message us here or call 01843 826180 if you have any information."