STAPELEY Grange's cattery in Nantwich is appealing to animal lovers to provide new homes for 100 cats it is due to receive.

The cattery already houses 64 cats, the maximum it is licensed to hold, and now needs the public to help with the extra cats due in from people who are no longer able to look after their pets.

Joyce Mellor, cattery deputy manager, said: "We are in dire straits and are desperately looking to find new homes for our cats. In recent weeks, perhaps because people are away on holiday, we have noticed a drop in the number visiting the cattery.

"My message is 'please do not forget about cats' - they all deserve good homes."

The cattery is part of the Stapeley complex in London Road that includes an RSPCA wildlife hospital, and takes in cats from a wide area, some the victims of cruelty brought to the centre by inspectors and animal collection officers.

"All our cats have a sad story to tell about the reasons why they are now in our care."

Anyone interested in taking a cat will have their homes checked by the RSPCA to ensure it is a suitable environment, and be charged £40 per cat to cover microchipping and neutering costs. Telephone: 0870 442 7102.