A FOOTLOOSE feline from East Lancashire has prompted a county-wide search for his owners after turning up in an empty house - 30 miles from home!

Tigger was found in an empty house in Freckleton Street, Lytham, by estate agent Elliot Ingleby - the brother of Burnley FC director Ray Ingleby.

But so far concerned cat lovers have been unable to trace Tigger's owners because the Blackburn area 01254 telephone number on the flea collar and disc has been disconnected.

The tabby and white male cat was taken in by Blackpool's Cats Paws Sanctuary and is now staying with one of the volunteers.

Linda Davies, who is fostering Tigger for Cats Paws, said he was making good progress. But she said: "It's a shame. His owners could be looking for him.

"We think he's about eight, and if somebody has gone to the trouble of putting the collar on you would think they wouldn't like to lose him."

It is thought Tigger may have got lost after moving to the area with his owners, or he might have got itchy tiger feet and travelled to Lytham accidentally in a car or van.

Sometimes it takes a couple of weeks before owners realise their cat is missing," Linda said. "But I have had him since he was found over a month ago and I will have to take him to the centre."

A spokesperson for the Fylde-based estate agents Frank Wyles and Co, where Elliot works, said: "We were given the key to show people round the property as it was up for sale but Tigger refused to budge and was terrified. He was obviously very settled."

Ray Ingleby today confirmed his brother worked for an estate agents and said he hoped the story had a happy ending.

But despite the mystery surrounding his appearance, Linda said Tigger appeared to be "feline" fine. "He is very quiet but a really nice cat and certainly likes his food!" she added.

Linda has appealed for Tigger's owners, or anyone with information that could help trace them, to get in touch on 01253 344396. The number on the collar was 01254 582500.