RSPCA hunt for witness after cat thrown over fence in bag for life

The ginger cat, 3,was found in a bag for life in a garden in Basildon

A ginger cat has been found in a garden after it was put in a bag for life and thrown over a fence in broad daylight.

RSPCA launched an appeal after it was discovered on 20 February in Basildon, Essex, at about 16:15 GMT.

"The carrier had been taped-up and wrapped in a bin bag and inside the carrier was a bag for life with the cat hiding underneath the bag," an RSPCA spokesperson said.

The charity released CCTV footage of a man who could help with inquiries.

He was caught on CCTV in the area and the RSPCA spokesperson said he could hold "vital information in connection with this incident".

• Listen: Laindon cat was 'stuffed' in a carrier bag

RSPCA has released a CCTV image of a man who they believe would be able to help with their investigation

He has been described as white, wearing glasses, a dark jacket and light blue t-shirt and he arrived in the area on a bike.

The ginger cat, 3, "doesn't have any injuries but the vet explained that he has clearly been very stressed by the experience," said the spokesperson.

Animal rescue officer, Michael Harrington said: "It appears this poor cat was thrown over a fence and dumped in someone else's garden.

"Thankfully, a member of the public spotted what had happened and went out and was shocked to find the cat at the bottom of their garden.

"The carrier had been taped-up and wrapped in a bin bag and inside the carrier was a bag for life with the cat hiding underneath the bag.

"The kind member of the public took him straight to a vet where he had a full check over.

"Thankfully, he doesn't have any injuries but the vet explained that he has clearly been very stressed by the experience."

The cat was not microchipped or found wearing collar when they were taken to Medivet Laindon who found a caring fosterer to look after the cat whilst the RSPCA investigated.