Boy's heartache as treasured parrot disappears

African Grey Alfie was only bought by Lee Higgins a few weeks ago in a bid to cheer up his younger half-brother Daniel, aged 13.

Both Lee, 34, and Daniel have been struggling to cope with the death of 15-year-old brother Matthew who hanged himself at his Mexborough home in February.

Lee bought seven-month-old Alfie as a surprise for when Daniel came to visit him at his home in John Street, Sheffield.

Lee said: "I only bought the bird a few weeks ago but he has picked up a lot since coming to live with me – he can talk and he whistles the Laurel and Hardy theme tune.

"He's a friendly bird and I was really looking forward to showing him off to Daniel."

But the bird flew off on Saturday August 18 after Lee accidentally left the back door open – before Daniel had even had chance to meet him.

Lee said: "My brother has been on holiday so he has not been round for a few weeks.

"He knew I had got the parrot but it was still going to be a nice surprise for him to see Alfie in the flesh."

Grey Alfie has bright red tail feathers – two of which are missing.

Lee said: "He looks like every other African Grey except for the missing flight feathers and he is very friendly. I am desperate to find him."

Lee is asking for anyone who sees the bird to contact him on 07852212499 and he even has a few tips for anyone who tries their hand at catching him.

Lee said: "He absolutely loves Mini Cheddars, they are his favourite snack so if anyone sees him in their garden they could try to entice him with those."