A MISSING terrapin has prompted BEN readers to bombard a couple with reptilian donations.

Terry the red-eared terrapin, who is the size of a saucer, escaped from Edna McCoy's pond in Burgonia Avenue, Harper Green, nearly two weeks ago.

The 10-year-old pet has still not been found, despite Mrs McCoy placing regular adverts in the BEN.

They have also searched their garden again to no avail. But readers have come to their aid and donated a houseful of scaly new pets, including four terrapins and a tortoise called Korky. Mrs McCoy, aged 65, a retired social services worker, said: "I wish I had a small holding as I could fill it with animals."

Despite the influx of pets, Mrs McCoy still needs the help of readers to find Terry. He went missing on August 3.

She said: "Having all these other pets does help, but we would like Terry back."

You can call the McCoys on 01204 572207. We are taking in all the waifs and strays and getting phone calls each day. We could end up with a pond full.

"I got a call from a lady in Tonge Moor saying she had not found my terrapin but wondered if we could give her's a good home. We agreed. Then a lady in Farnworth called to ask if we would take her's which we have yet to see.

"Another lady has called from Breightmet to say that she is looking for a home for two more.

"Two boys also came to my door with the tortoise. They saw the advert and said their mum would not let them keep it and wondered whether I wanted it.