A man has been caught on camera stealing a sentimental concrete birdbath from a cat rescue centre.

Wisteria Cat Rescue in Walderslade was targeted by a thief at 4am this morning.

A man was caught on CCTV stealing from Wisteria Cat Rescue in Walderslade

Billy Devitt, a manager at Aldi who supports cats from his home, says he is extremely worried about and been left shocked by the incident.

The 29-year-old said: "I shared the video as I wanted to make people aware of this person.

"When I saw the footage all I could say was oh my God, it was so strange.

"I know it is just a birdbath but they were caught on CCTV and that thing must weigh the equivalent to four bags of concrete. I just worry that If they could steal that what else may they steal."

Billy has been offering support and advice for any cat in need since the first lockdown.

Seven months later, he was contacted by the Charity Commission and Wisteria Cat Rescue became a registered charity.

Billy added: "I don't know why they'd steal a birdbath, maybe they saw it as an opportunity or maybe it was pre-bought and they had to steal it on demand.

"The birdbath was bought for us from a supporter and we are so disheartened beyond belief.

"We have reported the incident to a non-emergency number."

Since his first story with KentOnline more than 30,000 readers liked and commented on Billy's hard work.

People praised him for the hard work he puts into the rescue cats' care and wellbeing and he even received a goodwill message from TV's Paul O'Grady.

A police spokesman said: "Officers are investigating the theft of a concrete birdbath from the front garden of an address in Romney Road, Chatham at around 4.15am on Thursday 29 April 2021.

"Anybody with information that may assist the investigation is asked to call 01622 604100, quoting crime reference number 46/71477/21.

"You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by completing an online form on their website."

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