Bury St Edmunds family issue desperate plea to help save trapped cat who has been missing more than a week

A Bury St Edmunds family has issued a desperate appeal for anyone who could save their beloved cat – one week after he went missing.

Charlie, two, is trapped up a tree between Huntingfield Road and Winthrop Road, on the Horringer Court Estate.

Owner Lucy Rifat said her family first noticed he was missing on Tuesday and five days later, on Sunday, neighbours found Charlie atop the tree.

Having been away from home for so long, she feared he would not survive much longer.

She hoped to get in touch someone with a large cherry picker – capable of reaching at least 25 metres up – who could come to their aid as soon as possible

She said: “This has caused untold stress and sleepless nights for us, we feel completely helpless. We could either watch him die up there and fall down from the tree or succeed in getting through this horror.

“I have two daughters. It has been a struggle for them and us, first not knowing where he was or if he was alive but now aware and unable to help him.

“We believe he got scared, ran off and got lost. This is unusual behaviour for him.

“I am just really worried he is not going to last another night. If anyone can help get him down today I would be eternally grateful.”

Lucy said she contacted both Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and the RSPCA, who were unable to help.

The family also consulted a tree surgeon.

Lucy said the people who first found Charlie issued social media appeals to locate his owners, which led to her family discovering his location.

Lucy added: “I think he is trapped. He’s very high up – probably more than 20 metres – if he could get down on his own he would.”

Anyone who can help should get in touch with Lucy on 07905 353154.