THE mayor of Bromley had a close up encounter with a 9ft Burmese python at a charity walk.

More than 800 people took part in Harris HospisCare’s annual Bluebell Walk at Cudham recreation ground.

The hospice, based in Tregony Road, Orpington, hopes to raise £40,000 from the event.

News Shopper: Mayor of Bromley Councillor George Taylor with a 9ft Burmese python

Entertainment included live music, snake handling and a hog roast barbecue as well as home-made cakes and buns.

After walking the nine mile route around Halstead, mayor of Bromley Councillor George Taylor relaxed by posing with a python round his neck.

Hospice fundraiser Simon Pitts said, “It was an incredible day. We had a huge number of people come along today and take part in our walk.

“It never fails to amaze us here at the hospice how generous and supportive the local community are and we are all truly grateful for all their hard work, not just today but in raising vital sponsorship money for us.”

For anyone who was unable to take part in the walk and would like to make a £3 contribution to the Bluebell Walk campaign, the hospice has set up a text donation number.

Text the word BLUE to 70303.

The donation will cost £3 plus a text message at the standard rate and donators need to make sure they have the bill payer’s permission before texting.

The campaign will end on May 31.

For further information on the Bluebell Walk, the text campaign or the work of Harris HospisCare, please call 01689 825755 or email fundraising@harrishospiscare.org.uk