Volunteers from Leighton are desperately needed by Cats Protection.

More than 100 cats a year are looked after by the Luton, Dunstable & District branch's fostering system, but with only three current fosterers the charity is appealing for more.

Publicity officer Helen Balcombe said: "We will be more than happy to welcome new fosterers who can help look after the huge number of cats that are waiting to come into the branch's care.

"If anyone feels they can help, please get in touch."

Fosterers have to feed and water the cats and care for them either in pens provided by Cats Protection or in their own homes.

The cats need to experience human contact, which will be essential when they move in with new owners.

The group says all fosterers will have the support of the branch's welfare office, and expenses are funded by the branch.

"There is no better feeling than seeing a cat, who has come into the branch's care in poor health or clearly scared of people, leave with a set of owners in a fit and healthy condition and happy to be around humans," said Helen.

The branch is also seeking fundraisers who could spport the cause, mainly at weekends.

>> If you think you can help, call 0845 371 2746 or visit the website at www.luton.cats.org.uk