CAT news, cat features and cat interest stories have won Wharfe cat lovers national stardom.

A monthly feature in the Wharfedale Observer and Ilkley Gazette, various lost and abandoned cat stories and a web site won Wharfe Valley Cats Protection first prize for getting its message across.

And Wharfe Valley CP, which also stages regular bazaars at Ilkley's Kings Hall, has been given £1,0000 for its efforts from Cat Protection.

Audrey Hargreaves, Wharfe Valley CP branch coordinator, said she was delighted with the award.

"I am so proud of our hard working team. This prestigious national award is what the branch deserves for raising the profile of responsible pet ownership.

"For £1,000 we can neuter more than 30 cats and prevent untold unwanted kittens and much suffering, or we can provide food for our foster homes."

Maureen Stedmond-Hunter, branch

chairman, said media officer Graham Hoult and publicity expert Gina Finlayson had not stopped smiling since the award was announced.

Mr Hoult added: "I would like to give a big thank you to all our supporters and those good folk who took cats into their homes. It's been one of our toughest years but we scraped through thanks to all our supporters."

Anyone interested in either giving a cat a home or fostering one should telephone the branch on (01943) 830724. The website address is catswharfevalley.freeserve.co.uk.