Hunt on for Alfie the African grey parrot

Owner makes plea to help find pet which flew away over Calcot Golf Course yesterday (Sunday)

THE owner of a “very friendly” African grey parrot has made an appeal to the public to help find the bird after it went missing from his Tilehurst home yesterday (Sunday).

Mike Barford, from Fairway Avenue, was washing his car outside his home when the bird, called Alfie, took flight.

“He was watching me, I had the door open, and he just flew off. He went in the direction of Calcot Golf Course. I was out there looking for him but there was no sign," said Mr Barford.

“He can fly for a fair few miles but once he gets hungry, tired or cold he will go to someone; he may land on your shoulder or go to a window to tap. He's very friendly and very quiet. Once he's been in the house a few days he may start to make a noise but he is quiet at first.

“I really hope I can find him, I'm very anxious to get him back.”

The seven-year-old bird has a distinctive red tail.

Anyone who sees Alfie is asked to contact Mr Barford on (01189) 456665.