A YOUNG cat found with a severe burn to his chest is in need of a loving home before Christmas.

Poor Pikelet was found living rough with a very severe burn to his chest and the RSPCA Worcester and Mid-Worcestershire branch would like to give him a break after a tough start in life.

Branch trustee Geraldine Haynes said: "Goodness knows what he went through and how he got so badly injured.

He is a lovely two-year-old shorthaired black and white boy.

"Understandably Pikelet is a nervous boy, but very gentle. He will need an adult home, where his confidence can grow."

Pamela Booker, the branch secretary, said he was good with other cats and showed no signs of aggression to them.

The burn he suffered was from the neck down which can be seen on the photograph.

Mrs Booker said she did not know whether the burn was deliberate or accidental.

It is RSPCA policy not to rehome animals just before or during the Christmas period.

This is because it is not a good time to be introducing a pet to a new environment when everyone is busy, out and about or with visitors coming to the home.

The RSPCA is also of the view that an animal should not be given as a present as 'a pet is for life, not just for Christmas'.

The last date for adoption is Sunday, December 20.

The branch does not start rehoming again until the New Year hence the urgency.

At this time of year they also receive many animals coming into their care and so need to have space to accommodate them. This makes rehoming those animals they already have a top priority.

Please ring Pamela on 01905 841354 if you feel you could offer Pikelet his forever home.