A PARROT found perched on a Portland sign has been given a temporary home by a bird-loving police officer.

The island's community beat manager PC Mike Holman is caring for the parrot after it was discovered sitting on the Masonic Hall sign in Victoria Square.

He is appealing for the owner to come forward and collect the colourful bird.

PC Holman said: "I was on a rest day when it was found but it was brought to me because I've had parrots before and have a couple of budgies.

"After the parrot arrived, it took a couple of minutes for it to recover from the surprise and then it was quite happy. It is fairly tame and can wolf whistle and says 'ta' when you give it something.

"It's now in a spare cage at my home waiting for somebody to pick it up. It's an adult parrot and has a green head, back and wings. Its chest is bright yellow and orange.

"I've lost a parrot before and know what a relief it is when it returns."

Student Sam Smith contacted the police after spotting the parrot while walking with friends at about 9.30pm.

He was bitten on the finger when he first attempted to pick up the bird but then managed to wrap it in a jumper.

Sam 16, of Reforne, Easton, on Portland, said: "A little girl walking with us was looking at the stars and she saw the parrot and asked me what it was. I was quite surprised to see it there.

"I went to grab it and it bit my finger. So I took a jumper, wrapped it around the parrot but I was careful not to break its wings.

"Then we used my friend's phone to call the police and ask if anybody had reported one missing."

Anyone who believes the parrot belongs to them should contact PC Holman on 01305 226630.