TENBURY Town Council's clerk has shared a message telling people not to "kidnap" a cat that lives in the park.

The clerk, Lesley Bruton, took to social media to tell local people more about Barney, the town cat, and said there is no need for concern about his welfare.

The clerk said Barney was often "kidnapped" and taken to the vet by park visitors who think he is a stray, but he is actually well looked after by council groundsmen and locals.

(Image: Lesley Bruton)

Mrs Bruton said on Facebook: "Please do not take Barney. He is extremely well looked after and spoilt."

She even shared a message "by Barney" himself, which said: "Hi, my name is Barney and I am the town cat.

"I have lived in the park for 18 years and I admit to being 24 years old.

"I realise I look a little worse for wear but I am looked after.

"I attend Teme vets, I am microchipped and vaccinated, and I suffer allergies but I get treatment.

"I am often kidnapped and taken to the vets by strangers and it does cause me distress.

"I do love a bit of fuss and will talk loudly. It is lovely to meet you."

Mrs Bruton told the Tenbury Wells Advertiser that locals bring Barney food daily, as well as the care he receives from the town council groundsmen. He has a den in the Civic Garden, made by the groundsmen, which he uses for shelter and sleeps in at night.

"Many residents bring him fresh salmon and poached chicken which are his favourites," Mrs Bruton said. 

"He is partial to a bit of fish from the chip shop and likes to sit next to anyone who visits with fish and chips."

She said that Barney even survived the disastrous flooding of 2020 on his own, when no one could get to him to look after him.

Although his eyes look sore and red due to his allergies, they are being treated and people have been told not to move him from his home at the garden.