A TREE surgeon from Blaenavon was called in to help rescue a cat which was stuck up a 50-foot tall tree in New Inn.

The cat was spotted by a member of the public, on Heol Derwen, up a towering giant Ash tree on Sunday, August 13.

RSPCA Cymru enlisted the help of Lee Symes, of Lee Symes Tree Services, who spent 90 minutes working to safely remove the torbie-and-white cat from the tree.

The cat is exceptionally friendly, and is doing well after veterinary inspection.

A microchip was located and contact made with her owners, with arrangements made for them to be re-united.

Gemma Black, RSPCA inspector, said: “This torbie-and-white cat had reached such a great height, and I’m just relieved we were able to come to her rescue.

“We're hugely grateful to Lee Symes Tree Services for supporting us on a Sunday, helping her down from such a great, 50-foot height.

“Fortunately, we were able to locate a microchip – which is a timely reminder as to how important it is to ensure pets are identified.”

Local resident Christopher Brown said: “I heard a cat crying near to our home, and had assumed it was a cat in nearby woodland seeking out a mate.

“However, as the noise continued for a number of days, I followed the sound – and managed to detect this poor cat stuck 50-feet up a tree.

“It was heartbreaking to hear the distressed noise – and we were just desperate to help her.

"Thankfully, we contacted the RSPCA, and they worked with a local tree surgeon, who was able to reach the cat.

“The RSPCA officer was absolutely marvellous, and her concern and compassion for this cat was second to none.

"Both myself, and a neighbour, have donated to the RSPCA, and we are so pleased the cat was brought to safety.”

Mr Symes, the tree surgeon, added: “This was certainly one of the more unusual jobs I’ve done. We’re happy we could help a cat in the local community.”