A dangerous snake was found slithering around one of Britain’s biggest shopping centres.

The 4ft anaconda was spotted slipping into an ornamental pond at Lakeside in Essex, reports the Sun.

Security staff managed to snare it and put it in a box before it terrorised shoppers.

Experts identified it as a yellow anaconda which can grow to more than 10ft.

The snake was being cared for at the South Essex Wildlife Hospital, near the giant mall in Thurrock.

Spokeswoman Sue Schwar said: “Security managed to catch it because it was probably quite cold and placid.

“Once it warmed up it had quite an attitude and became aggressive. It’s quite nasty and has taken a few lunges at us.

“We are used to dealing with dumped cats, dog and rabbits but never an anaconda. They can be very unpleasant."