A DARLINGTON mother has offered a cash reward for the return of her family's much-loved pet parrot, after it went missing from home.

Four-year-old African Grey parrot Donnie flew out of his home in Russell Street, off Haughton Road, Darlington, on Wednesday (June 18) evening.

He belongs to Nichola Preston and her family, but is looked after by other family members as he can inflame her twin daughters' asthma.

Mrs Preston said: "He is not caged during the day, as it's nice for them to be able to fly around.

"Unfortunately, a door has been accidentally left open and he has got out.

"His wings have not been clipped, so he is able to fly, although I don't know how far."

Mrs Preston named the bird after Donnie Wahlberg, her favourite member of the US band New Kids on the Block.

He was given to her as a wedding present in 2010.

She added: "He is different shades of grey and has red on his tail.

"He talks a bit and can bite people who he is not familiar with.

"My children love him and they are able to visit him.

"He is still part of our family unit, even though he doesn't live with us any more.

"We are all so upset."

Mrs Preston is asking Darlington residents to check for Donnie in their gardens and bushes, in trees and under cars.

She has also posted a number of appeals on social media and is hopeful of a positive outcome.

Anyone who can help is asked to call Mrs Preston on 07841-424-840.