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Homer the snail slimes
his way into the record books

by Jo Earle

Homer the snail has come out of his shell to claim a world
record.

The Kent pet has slimed his way into the 2013 Guinness World
Record Book as the planet's largest pet snail.

Measuring a magnificent 25cm long, Homer's oddyssey into the
history books has been helped by healthy doses of tomato, cucumber
and banana.

Now three, and weighing 450g, the guzzling gastropod belongs to
10-year-old Joseph Billington, from Whitstable.

Joseph wanted a snail after seeing a giant one pictured in the
2010 Guinness World Record Book.



He said: “My aunt bought Homer for me three years ago.

"you have to like being slimed on lots" – joseph billington, on his pet homer

His dad, Steven, said Joseph had been looking after his pet well
for the last three years.

He added: "Every now and then Joseph would ask if he had beaten
the picture in the 2010 book.



“Once Homer could fit in both of Joseph's hands we called up the
Guinness Book of Records.

Joseph Billington with his slimy pal Homer -
the world's largest snail

"They told us what the parameters had
to be. We then had Homer measured by the vets, sent them off, and
now we have the record.



“He needs reminding every now and again to look after him, but he
is very good.



“We are very proud of him."