A FAMILY is offering a reward for the safe return of their pet parrot, who disappeared earlier this week.

The green Amazon parrot responds to the same Jasper and was lost in the Astley Bridge area on Monday at about 3.15pm.

His devastated owner Chat Patel, aged 58, and his sister Julie Leigh, aged 53, have since been searching the area and handing out flyers hoping for his safe return.

Mrs Leigh said: "We are devastated. He's never gone missing before. He flew off when we were exchanging him from my car to my brother's after I looked after him.

"He flew onto a garage roof at first, but when we went over to try and get him down he set off into the sky and we haven't seen him since. We're all devastated."

The seven-year-old bird is tagged and can speak phrases such as "how are you doing" and "I want to come out there".

Mrs Leigh said: "Jasper is like part of the family and we are offering a reward to anyone who can help us find him.

"We have searched everywhere, put out posters, spoken to the RSPCA and various vets in the area but so far we have been unsuccessful. If anyone can help, please get in touch."

If you think you have seen Jasper or know where he is, contact Julie on 07805 537467.