WORCESTER'S branch of the RSPCA has launched an urgent appeal for people to rehome the cats in its care.

The charity, which is building a new branch rescue and rehoming centre at The Holdings, Broomhall, near Worcester, is at bursting point, with more than 30 cats in care and lots more waiting to come in.

And the RSPCA Worcester & Mid-Worcestershire Branch is hoping animal lovers who have room in their life and home for a rescued cat, will consider adopting from them.

Geraldine Haynes, branch trustee, said: "Until our new rescue shelter is built we are using a private boarding cattery on the outskirts of Worcester.

"The cat pens there that are used for RSPCA rescued cats are at bursting point and no more can come in until some have been rehomed.

"There are also cats at vets waiting to be transferred to the cattery, once there is space.

"Many of the cats have been with us for a long time, but we do not put a time limit on them - they stay with us until a suitable home is found.

"Some groups are particularly difficult to rehome, such as the black and white cats, the older cats or cats who have been rescued from less desirable backgrounds and are nervous or timid.

"This makes them a little harder to rehome, but they are all wonderful in their own way and so deserving of a new, loving home."

The branch currently has cats of all ages, with some pictured here. There are youngsters looking for a fresh start and some older cats looking for their retirement homes. All the animals are vet checked, neutered or spayed, microchipped, fully vaccinated, wormed and deflead before leaving.

A home visit is done and an adoption fee is payable which goes towards veterinary costs. Six weeks of free pet insurance is also included.

Many of our cats can be seen on the branch website at www.rspca-worcester.co.uk but there will also be a rehoming day later this month where potential adopters can meet the cats.

It is on Saturday, June 13, from 11.30am to 2.30pm at Teme Acre Cattery, Old Road, Old Powick Bridge, St John's, Worcester WR2 4BU.

For more information about adopting one of the cats or the rehoming day, please call Pamela on 01905 841354 or Geraldine on 01886 822083.