Kington St Michael sets up appeal to save life of much-loved stray cat

The stray black and white cat, nicknamed The Mittenses by one villager, has been a popular feature of Kington St Michael, near Chippenham, for many years.

But after local Colin Hall took him to Garden Vets for eye issues, the news was broken that he would have to be put down unless the money for a life-changing operation could be found.

£1,800 is needed to return the village’s favourite cat to full health, with an eye removal operation, major dental work and a neutering all necessary.

But now residents have clubbed together in a bid to raise the money needed to save him.

The Kington St Michael cat in his new home (Image: Colin Hall)

Charlie Grubb, who has started a GoFundMe page to collect donations, said: “I’ve never met him personally, but he’s been in the village for years and I just thought I needed to do whatever I could to help him.

“He seems like a right character… he’s very well-liked and very friendly.

“I hate the idea of a cat being put down when it can have the chance of another life.”

Now The Mittenses looks like he’ll get another chance with over £1,400 raised for his operation so far.

He has also been adopted by Lyn Goodchild, another local who is considering naming him Alfie, and has quickly settled into his new home.

Mrs Grubb added that the vets confirmed the cat was FIV positive, and he now must spend the rest of his days as an indoor pet.

The Kington St Michael cat in his new home (Image: Colin Hall)

“I’m really proud of Chippenham and the response we’ve had”, she added.

“Everyone has been really keen to help out and now he’s got a new home where he’s taken to it like a duck to water.

“To say we were overwhelmed with the response would be an understatement, now we’re just trying to get to the target for his vet bills which would be amazing.”

The Kington St Michael cat in his new home (Image: Lyn Goodchild)

Chippenham Cat Rescue have told those involved they will help to make up any shortfall, while any surplus funds will be donated to them to help other cats in need.

The volunteer-run organisation rescues 200 cats and kittens every year, on average, and relies solely on donations.

This is the third cat they have stepped in to rescue in the space of just a week.

Mrs Grubb added: “We are pleased to say any surplus funds will help them carry on the amazing work they do.”