A BAKER has rattled up a fun shape loaf of bread for customers...as hissssssteria grows and grows over Wickford’s missing boa constrictor.

Kevin Barke has concocted the snake-shaped bread to cater for his customers’ interest in the serpent, The town has been bitten by snake fever since the six-foot long boa broke out of its tank in Barnfield, Wickford, last Thursday.

Over a week on, the two-year-old Diego, still hasn’t been found and fears are mounting the creature could be living somewhere in Wickford Memorial Park.

Now customers at Barkes Craft Bakery, in the Ladygate Centre, can’t get enough of Kevin’s £1.40 distinctively shaped french sticks.

Kevin, 56, who told how Diego has being referred to locally as “The Beast of Barnfield”, said: “It’s all anyone is talking about in Wickford.

“As a joke, because of the coverage, I baked a snake-shaped loaf for my granddaughter Charlotte, 12, who is staying with us at the moment.

“She loved it so much, I did another batch and sold them in the shop. They’ve been really popular.”

Urban myths about Diego are already gathering pace.

Kevin added: “I’ve heard people say they’ve heard it’s eaten a cat, a dog and someone’s rabbit! I don’t think any of its true.”

Police say they’ve had no reports of pets being gobbled up by the reptile and residents are being urged to stay calm.

The boa, which crushes its prey to death, is not fully grown and has been described as a danger only to small animals, by its owner Aaron Waymont, 22.

But where Diego has slithered off to is still a mystery.

Essex Police's wildlife liaison officer has been working with the RSPCA to try to find the creature, but as of yet there have been no sightings.

Anyone who spots it should call 999 immediately and not go near the snake. Also call the Echo’s crime reporter Gina Marden on 01268 469379.