Burglars scared off by parrot

Burglars intending to ransack a couple's home were frightened off by their pet parrot, police said today.

As the thieves broke into the house in a remote spot near Nunthorpe, Middlesbrough, they turned on the lights only to find they had roused the creature - and quickly fled.

But it was no snarling Rottweiler that confronted the villains - it was Matilda, an African grey parrot who squawked: "Hello, who are you?"

When the burglars didn't answer, she took an altogether sterner tone, demanding: "Hey you, come over here!" It was enough to send them packing.

The thieves broke into the garage first and stole power tools before forcing their way into the house. Owner Jacki Burnett and her husband were away for the night. Mrs Burnett said: "We believe Matilda saved us from any further property being stolen and we are grateful."

A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said of the Saturday night break-in: "It is suspected that Matilda disturbed the burglars and they fled.

"We are investigating but don't intend to interview Matilda. It is hoped the offenders will be up before the beak sooner rather than later."