Pippin is 1000th pussy to find a new home

Bluebell Ridge cat rehoming centre in Chowns Hill, Hastings, has cared for abandoned and stray felines from the area since it opened in June 2000.

Pippin was the lucky kitten who took the total to be rehomed by the RSPCA centre up to 1000 when he was adopted with his sister Merry.

They were named after the mischievous hobbits in Lord of the Rings by new owner, nine-year-old Helen Johnson.

The pair are certainly living up to their names, and are providing plenty of fun and company for the Johnsons.

A fascination with bubbles has led to an early bath for Pippin and his fondness for balls of knitting wool triggered lively chases around his new home in Woodville Road, Bexhill.

Helen's mother Diane said: "The kittens are brilliant companions for Helen.

"We are so glad we went to Bluebell Ridge as the staff there gave us excellent advice on settling the cats into our home.

"There were so many cats there it was hard to choose."

With running costs of 80,000 a year the cattery is constantly looking for ways to raise money.

"Bluebell Ridge is totally self-funding and receives no money from RSPCA HQ," said manager Julie Watson. "We rely on donations and adoption fees."

Safe Haven, a new sponsorship scheme, has been set up by the cattery in the hope the public will contribute to the day to day running costs and donate monthly or annually.

To find out more call 752121.