Men in Borehamwood are being warned to look out for an African with a Geordie accent, a bad temper and a dislike of the male sex. Worried Shaun Tierney from Gregson Close lost his African Grey parrot recently, and said the 11inch-long bird, which has no red tail feathers, was more than able to take care of itself.

The bird grew up in Newcastle, is able to say hello, and much prefers women to men. Anybody who sees the feathery fugitive is asked to call Mr Tierney on 020 8207 6038.