The reptilian world bit a fond farewell to one of its most distinguished members yesterday. A native of India, Mister No-Legs was a true Renaissance adder, for after putting a chequered youth beset by rogueish associations behind him, he went on to author two best-selling cookery books, launch a animal-friendly line of handbags, and take a silver-gilt medal in the Chelsea Flower Show for his horticultural masterpiece, so aptly named 'By the Banks of the River Ganges' (photo insert). Known for his forked tongue and sharp wit, he was often quoted as saying 'Biology is only a suggestion. One should never let a lack of limbs or external ears get in the way of a life well-lived. Or a good story."