These two house martins are currently flying around Roger Musselle's kitchen.

Pet shop owner Roger, who runs an animal rescue sanctuary centre, knew the birds would not like being caged.

So Roger, of Woodingdean, in Brighton, decided to let them loose in his kitchen.

House martins are high- flying birds and true to form they have made their home on one of the highest points, the curtain pelmet above the kitchen window.

The birds, who have lost their mother, are taking food and drink from Roger and are beginning to feel confident about flying.

Roger said: "My wife and I are growing very fond of them. We have to be careful when opening the window as they are not yet ready to fend for themselves. I think they may be ready to do so in the next week or so.

"Apart from having to cover the curtains with paper because of their droppings they are no trouble at all.

"They have been taking food off a pen knife and are quite tame.

"I shall release them in an area where there are house martins already nesting."

One of the new inhabitants at the sanctuary is a colourful corn snake found curled up on a doorstep in Southwick.

The non-poisonous snake is not well and needs a hernia operation. Roger is hoping the owner will get in touch with him on 01273 308268 or 01273 607962.

Roger, 54, of Downs Valley Road, has spent the past few years building up the wildlife sanctuary and during that time he has rescued hundreds of birds and animals.