A one-eyed rescue cat, whose sporting prowess has seen her become an unlikely film star, is in the running for a national award.

Thirteen-year-old Midge shot to fame after appearing in a short film made by her owner, Wrose parish councillor Martin Humphreys, which was shown at the Cannes Film Festival.

The tortoiseshell feline, who has been shortlisted in the Outstanding Rescue Cat category of Cats Protection’s National Cat Awards, enjoyed racing Mr Humphreys to the shops so much he was inspired to make the film, called The Great Race.

Mr Humphreys, of Wrose, said: “She’s 13 now but she still loves racing and is just as fast as ever. People are amazed when they see her sprinting along and I do struggle to keep up with her sometimes.

“She is an inspiration really and just goes to prove how individual and special each cat is. Having one eye has never held her back. She’s a determined cat and wouldn’t let anything stop her.

“I hope her story will make more people think about taking on a rescue cat – I had no idea that this little one-eyed cat would take me all the way to the Cannes Film Festival so you never know what you’ll get!”

The winners will be announced on Thursday, August 16.

Event organiser Kate Bunting said: “Each and every entry we received told a tale about why cats have such a special place in people’s hearts. We think all cats are special, but Midge especially deserved a place in the final for showing that rescue cats have true star appeal.”