A CAT fan has been named as the runner-up for a national award.

Claire Frangleton, of Whitchurch Road in Padgate, was shortlisted for the category of Animal Charity Employee of the Year in the Petplan and Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) Animal Charity Awards.

Claire, who works at Cats Protection’s Warrington Adoption Centre in Cheshire, attended an awards ceremony at the Bournemouth International Centre at the end of April where she narrowly missed out on the top prize.

She said: “I thought the awards were amazing and I still can’t believe I was chosen as one of the finalists.

"It was a great night meeting people from other charities and seeing everyone's achievements. It was an honour to represent Cats Protection at the awards.”

As senior cat care assistant, Claire is responsible for looking after all of the cats who arrive at the Warrington Centre, ensuring that each feline receives the highest level of care possible.

Claire caught the attention of the panel of judges after she looked after a cat named Sheeran who came into the charity’s care because his owner had sadly passed away.

Sheeran was diagnosed with entropian, a condition where eyelids turn inwards, which caused his eyelashes to irritate his eyes and a medical operation was required to prevent further discomfort, after which he was found a new home.

Now in its third year, the Animal Charity Awards celebrate the work, dedication and commitment of animal charities and not-for-profit organisations across the UK.

Petplan's head of marketing, Isabella von Mesterhazy, said: “It’s a huge honour to hold the Animal Charity Awards.

"Each and every one of the nominees including Claire tirelessly work to ensure the wellbeing of the animals under their care, and these awards seek to celebrate this fantastic work.”

More information about Cats Protection’s Warrington Adoption Centre can be found at warrington.cats.org.uk/.