Volunteers from Lamont Farm in Erskine have launched an urgent appeal after crooks broke in and stole two of the creatures from the log cabin last night.

A spokeswoman for Lamong Farm said: "We are missing Drago, our 10 ½ feet long Carpet Python, who will be hungry as he’s due to eat so has not shed.

"Also taken was Jasper, our 2 ½ feet long muscular Royal Python, who is a biter so needs to be handled very carefully. Both have typical markings for their breeds.

"This was a deliberate act, as the front door of the cabin was put in and the locks popped on the vivariums."

They are now pleading with the thieves to return both snakes as farm workers have been left devastated by the ordeal.

"To say that we’re heartbroken by this theft is an understatement," the spokeswoman continued.

"These beautiful creatures are a big draw at the Farm and when we do outreach to schools. We simply cannot afford to do without them or replace them at this time. It is such a despicable crime to steal from a charity, especially when it is a small local one. We don’t have much, but are prepared to offer a small reward to anyone who can offer information that leads to the safe return of Drago and Jasper. All that matters to us is that we get our boys back safe."

If you hear or see of anything in connection with this theft then please PM the Farm or phone it on 0141 812 5335. All information received will be treated confidentially.