POLICE are assisting a Yate family to find their missing cat and a reward will be offered for his safe return.

The family lost their three-year-old silver Tabby Persian Chinchilla cat, Oscar, after it was hit by their neighbour’s car on November, 19, and ran away.

Avon and Somerset police state that the cat could be anywhere in the Yate and Chipping Sodbury area and has been injured so may be limping on his back leg.

They ask that everyone checks their outbuildings, sheds and garages where he could be hiding.

He has been microchipped and can be scanned free of charge at any vets.

Oscar is describes as being very timid and may run away if approached.

Owner Julie Reed, 58, said: “It's heart-breaking as he has just vanished. We've been continuing to search and drop leaflets in doors. We just don't know what more to do now.

“We are convinced from all that we know so far that Oscar is still out there but hurt and probably hiding out somewhere safe and dry.

She added: “We watched the Yorkshire Vet and someone's cat was found two months after it went missing 20 miles from home, so there is hope.

“We've learned a lot about missing cats recently - there are over 16,500 missing pets currently registered in the UK, that's really sad.”

If anyone sees the cat they should call the family on 07860 769577, or call in confidence to Winterbourne and Brimsham Veterinary Surgery on 01454 312321.