CAT owners should be wary of who they allow to look after their pet over the festive season, an animal welfare charity has warned.

Members of the city's Cat Protection branch are advising owners to be extra vigilant when homing their cats during the Christmas period.

Brendan Rogers, 33, of Robert Avenue, St Albans, was jailed for 18 weeks earlier this year after several dead kittens were discovered in his car.

Charity spokeswoman Jean Thompson said: “Cat owners should be extremely vigilant. Whether approached by phone or in person, if you have any doubts at all as to whether your kittens will be homed in a secure and safe environment, speak to Cats Protection and we will help you."

For more information visit www.stalbans.cats.org.uk