A DEVASTATED couple from Broughton have called on the public to help reunite them with their beloved pet cat Smudge.

Tony Brierley is offering a reward for the safe return of 12-year-old Smudge, who has lived with the Brierleys since turning up on their doorstep when he was just a couple of months old.

Smudge, who has a 'party trick' of being able to beg for food, had been staying at the Verstone Cattery in Urswick when he escaped.

Mr Brierley, who lives at The Green just outside of Broughton, said both he and his wife were devastated.

"We had been on holiday and we went to pick Smudge up as soon as the cattery opened after we got back. The owner Simon Broomfield said the handle had broken on his basket and he had escaped."

Despite a number of reported sightings since his disappearance on June 4, and travelling to Urswick most nights to search for Smudge, Mr and Mrs Brierley have had no joy and are prepared to pay a reward to anyone who can help them find Smudge.

Smudge is an attractive black cat with white fur around his mouth. Anyone with information is asked to call 07831 353622.