A group of Bradford friends were so worried about an increase in unwanted cats they decided to set up their own cat sanctuary.

One year on, Paw Prints Cat Rescue now has more than 60 cats and kittens being looked after by the friends, led by Elaine Rodgers at her Bankfoot home.

Mrs Rodgers, of Deanside Mount, has about 40 of the cats and kittens, while another member, Anna Clarke, has 14.

Mrs Clarke, of Undercliffe, said the increase was not down to people tightening their belts but instead blames it on laziness.

“People get kittens when they are cute but when they grow they lose interest and can’t be bothered.”

She added: “There’s only three or four of us at the moment and we need more volunteer fosterers.”

Looking after the cats costs hundreds of pounds a week, so food and money are always welcome too.

To support them, call Mrs Rodgers on (01274) 723708.