A SCHOOLBOY has been left heartbroken by the disappearance of his "best friend".

Daniel Birchall's missing pal, Iggy, has not been seen since he left the family's Bolton home on Saturday.

The anxious 14-year-old now hopes that publicising his friend's distinctive features - four legs, green skin and a long tail and tongue - will help to track him down.

The missing friend is Daniel's pet iguana, who bolted to freedom after he lifted the lid on his cage.

Since Iggy's escape, the Thornleigh College pupil has searched gardens and parks near the family's home in Crosby Road, Heaton. Neighbours have helped but so far there has been no sightings of his pet.

His father said: "Iggy's disappearance has left Daniel heartbroken.

"He loves exotic animals, especially reptiles. He has two lizards and once had a tarantula but Iggy is his best friend."

The family say that Iggy, who is 2ft 6ins long, is very tame but will run away if he is frightened.

Anyone who has seen Iggy or has any information about his whereabouts is asked to contact Bolton Police, 0161 872 5050, or the RSPCA.

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