A parrot owner is suffering “off the scale” stress after losing his pet of 22 years in Islington on Saturday evening.

Owen Harrison was visiting Camden Passage, off Upper Street, accompanied by Charlie, a green Soloman Island Eclectus parrot.

Mr Harrison, 40, of Milton Keynes, claims Charlie was then stolen from a taxi on Essex Road, near Northampton Street.

He is now appealing for Charlie’s safe return, and said: “I have lost the plot. The stress has been off the scale. I’m distraught, my girlfriend is distraught, and my mum is considering cancelling her holiday. We need to get him back as soon as possible.”

Asked why 22-year-old Charlie was with him, Mr Harrison said: “He comes out with me all the time. He must have been to London at least 50 times in the 22 years I have had him.”

The parrot is described as having red and blue markings, and, according to Mr Harrison, is “not the best flyer as he’s a bit lazy”.

Mr Harrison, who reported the incident to the police, is appealing to anyone who spots Charlie to call the RSPCA on 0300 123 4999.

He has also set up social media campaigns. Search “Find Charlie the Parrot” on Facebook or @helpcharliebird on Twitter.