QUICK-thinking staff at Evesham Community Contact Centre (ECCC) worked together to help save a cat’s life after it had been hit by a van.
The black and white moggy, later named Robbie, suffered a broken pelvis after being hit by the vehicle on Abbey Road at 10.30am on April 3.
A customer had alerted staff at ECCC after finding the cat hidden under a car outside. They then told the nearby vets and directed traffic so drivers could keep their distance.
Deputy Manager Joanne Franklin lay down beside the car to calm the feline down before he limped off behind some bins and climbed into a locked gas meter cupboard. Police, RSPCA officers and veterinary staff then worked together to herd the injured cat into a carrier.
Robbie was taken to De Montfort Veterinary Hospital where he received treatment for a broken pelvis and spent time recuperating.
Joanne Franklin, deputy manager at ECCC, said: “When I looked under the car I could see a dirty black and white cat who hissed when I tried to get closer. I lay down next to the car and tried talking to him in a soothing voice.
“The vets originally said it wasn’t looking good so I can’t believe the photos of him now, he looks so much better and happier. Now it seems he may have a new home and fresh start, so lying in the road in the rain was totally worth it.”
After months of distributing leaflets and sharing Facebook posts, no owner was found but he now has a new home with the vet who cared for him.
Hannah Williams, vet at De Montfort Veterinary Hospital, said: “Robbie has been through a lot but is recovering well. Without the quick actions of the ECCC staff, officers and my colleague, Kirsty Wilks, a nurse at the veterinary hospital, it could’ve ended a lot worse for him.
“I fell in love with Robbie straight away and knew I wanted to take him home. He is making a good recovery but due to his injury he will probably have issues in the future. As a vet I will be able to spot those signs.
“If anyone finds an injured cat I would advise them to contact their local vets straight away.”
