A friendship formed between two stray has helped a cat blossom and overcome his fears- and even have his own happy ending against the odds.

Named Spencer, the ginger cat was extremely nervous, even terrified at times, of people going near him after he was handed into Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter (WARS) by a member of the public.

Spencer would run and hide from the staff when it came to feeding time, and would even climb the walls of pens to try and escape when approached. But that all changed when he met a younger cat.

Another ginger cat, named Richie by the centre's staff, was found at the warehouse of St Richard's Hospice and homed in a pen next to Spencer. It was after that the "miracle" happened.

Richie was very sociable with all who approached him and would often play in his pen. This led to Spencer showing an interest in the playful cat.

The staff at the centre sought consultation from a veterinary surgery, and it was agreed the budding friends would interact with each other.

Claire Tregunna, manager of the centre in Newland, said: "This is something WARS would not usually consider doing, but we eventually let Richie out into the aisle to meet Spencer through the pen.

"Richie had helped Spencer no end, and has really brought the best out of him yet. It's a real miracle.

"All at WARS were concerned over what to do with Spencer and if a home could be found, but hard work and perseverance from the staff, the volunteers and from little Richie, really won the day."

In a complete turn-around, the staff were suddenly able to feed Spencer from hand and he stopped hiding for visitors.

To complete the miracle, the pair have now found a new home together too.

For more information on the charity, or to make a donation to the centre, visit wars.org.uk