LIZARDS eating snails, and millipedes supping on a pint is hardly a typical scene at anyone's local pub.

But it has become the norm at The Victoria in Victoria Road, Old Town, where a bunch of creepy crawly fans meet up once a month.

The Swindon Tarantula and Reptile Society has been swapping tales of escaped tarantula and scorpions for more than a decade, and now it is keen to attract new members.

Cabbie Steve Woodward, 34, from West Swindon, started with six frogs he inherited from his brother but now owns 12 lizards, including fat tailed geckos, more than 20 tarantulas and some scorpions all in a specially adapted room at his home.

He said: "My mates love it, they are always bringing their children over to have a look.

"We're looking for new members but we want to stress that people shouldn't just buy exotic animals. They need specialist care. Talk to us." To find out more about the society call 07739 109495.

I've got a friend coming down from Fairford with his daughter especially to see the collection this week.