Terrified schoolchildren noticed a wild python inside their teacher's car.

The youngsters were on their lunch break when they saw the python's tail dangling from the bumper of the silver Toyota which was parked next to the sports field.

Rescue workers arrived and caught the reptile inside the engine of the car in Loei, northeastern Thailand last on Friday (13/09) afternoon.

The youngsters were kept away from the vehicle to avoid them becoming excited. Teacher Minnie Jariya later came outside and confirmed the car belonged to her. 

She said: ''I've never had a snake in my car before. I think this is a sign of good luck. I will use the numbers for my lottery ticket.

''I'm glad the children saw the snake and raised the alarm. I would not want the snake in there while I was driving home.''