A LAGER-loving puss with cat-titude, named after rugby legend Alex Murphy, is in line for a feline personality of the year title.

Fourteen-years-old Murphy, owned by Leigh Centurions' fans, Cath and Lee Littlewood, was spotted tapping a home brew sack hanging in the pantry and licking up the drips.

Teacher Cath was so amused by the old she-cat's antics she entered her for the Cats' Protection League personality prize and she has been shortlisted for the award.

Cath, of Manchester Road, Tyldesley, said she and Lee went to Hilton Park on their first date. The event was to see Leigh play Ryedale-York in September 1988 -- when Leigh's current Director of Football was first team coach.

They got Murphy two weeks after they married the following year and named her after the rugby coach because of their colourful personalities and because both enjoyed a scrap.

Cath said: "I entered her for the competition after Lee found her turning on the lager tap and drinking it. No wonder she lies so contentedly at night in front of the fire -- we thought it was our company she enjoyed."

Murphy is the oldest member of the family, four years older than daughter Bethan. She has since been joined by rescue cat McGinlay, named after former Bolton Wanderers' player, John, and new kitten Sweep.

The winner will be decided next month.