Grant Walker was just seven years old when his parents bought him his first pet – a boa constrictor.

It sparked a love of reptiles that the young boy never shook off.

Now aged 48, Mr Walker, from Hollingbourne, still has a boa constrictor in his collection of 15 snakes, but has added three chameleons, two bearded dragons, a crested gecko, a salamander, a tortoise and numerous fish and frogs.

Looking after the reptiles has given him so much pleasure he decided to share his hobby with others. So, together with friend Darren Tubbs, he has founded the Maidstone Reptile and Amphibian Club.

It has just 10 members so far, but they hope it will expand when it hosts Maidstone’s first Reptile and Amphibian Show at the Lockmeadow Market on Sunday, August 31.

Visitors will be able to buy reptiles from established breeders, along with the necessary equipment, and obtain advice on how to look after their exotic pets. The event runs from 10am to 4pm. Entry is £3, with accompanied children under 16 free. No animals will be sold to anyone under 18. For further details, call 07943 911647.