A LUCKY black cat called Salem has been credited with saving his owner’s life after her flat caught fire.

Lucy Thompson was fast asleep as flames and smoke engulfed the ground-floor flat in Longley Road, Rochester, at about 4am on Friday.

It was then that the faithful moggie turned rescuer.

“He was biting my hand and scratching my face to wake me,” said Lucy. “The smoke was really dense and there were flames everywhere.

“I dashed out of the front door, but then realised my other cat, Syrius, was still inside. I went back and fetched him and roused people in the other flats. They all got out, but if it hadn’t been for Salem, I am convinced I would have died in the fire.”

The fire started after a candle burned down and set fire to soft furnishings in the living room.

Strood Fire Station manager Phil Rice said: “They didn’t have a working smoke alarm so they were very lucky to have survived this.”

Ms Thomson, who is now living with friends nearby, said: “Syrius was slightly singed, but the vet says he is okay. As for Salem, he’s getting all the fuss and special treats a cat could wish for.”