The Chandler's Ford 18-foot python that terrified residents

The enormous six stone (38kg) snake was seen in the early hours of the morning in Ribble Close, making its way across a rooftop before forcing its way through a resident's upstairs window.

The residents inside managed to use a broom handle to fight off the Albino Burmese python and poke it back out the window - no doubt, not how they had planned to spend their Wednesday morning. 

The python then fell 20ft onto the bonnet of a car below, landing with an almighty thud.

The six-stone python slithering across rooftops a year ago today (Image: submitted)

Jenny Warwick, 62, was the first to notice the enormous snake slithering across the roof of the houses opposite and when she told her husband - he did not believe her.

Speaking at the time, Jenny said: "I told my husband, Steven, but he said 'don't be silly.'

"It's not what you want to see first thing in the morning, I think it's very irresponsible to let it loose.

"I saw something on the roof and thought it must be a plastic tube, but then its head started moving.

"My husband hates snakes, and he couldn't get to work fast enough."

Earlier this month another python, believed to be around four feet long, was seen near The Avenue in Southampton.

Exotic animal owners are advised to be very careful, particularly in the summer. 

The RSPCA warns that hot summer weather can make snakes very active and more likely to escape, so owners must keep their snakes securely contained.

RSPCA scientific officer, Evie Button said: “Snakes are excellent escape artists and will take the opportunity of a gap in an enclosure door, or a loose-fitting lid to make a break for it.

"So we would urge all pet snake owners to be extra vigilant at this time of year, invest in an enclosure suitable for the particular species and make sure that enclosure is kept secure - and locked if necessary - when unattended.”