Olli the ostrich is still giving Sussex Police the runaround more than 24 hours after escaping from a farm.

The 4st female, who broke free with two accomplices from the compound near Billingshurst at 2.40am yesterday, remained at large despite the efforts of police and the farm owners to track her down.

The trio caused traffic chaos around the Five Oaks area of the A264 and the A29 after giving their owners the slip.

One of the flightless birds was hit by a van and another became so distressed as police tried to restrain it it had to be put down. But Olli has so far eluded capture.

A police spokesman said: "She has not been found yet and there have been no sightings of her. We don't know where she would go or what she would eat."

Well-meaning animal lovers are being warned not to approach the bird as it may become distressed and charge off.

Anyone who spots Olli should call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999.