An animal charity is hoping to reunite a tabby cat – found wandering 25 miles from home – with his owner.

Anim-Mates sanctuary in St Mary Hoo has been looking after the young pet named ‘Pepper’ for the past week.

The animal, which is believed to be from Sonora Fields, Sittingbourne, was found “crying” outside a house.

His microchip implant has enabled the sanctuary to trace the feline to an address in Amber Rise but attempts to contact the owner by phone and email have failed.

The animal charity believes they may have moved to the area or he somehow got a lift to the marina where he was found crying out for his owner on Sunday, December 20.

Trustee Teresa Bloomfield said: “We’re forced to turn into Miss Marple when we get cases like these and had to contact vets to try to locate the cat’s family.

“He’s such an affectionate cat and obviously missing, so we are hoping to have him home by Christmas.”

The sanctuary said it has made several attempts to get in touch with the owner and their next step is to write to the address registered but this will take time.

Anyone with information, is encouraged to call 07743 331397 or email info@anim-mates.org.uk