A cat rescue charity from Northwich is working to manage a growing colony of over 100 stray cats around two industrial estates in Middlewich.
Willowsway Cat Rescue first noticed the large number of stray cats around the Brooks Lane and Midpoint Industrial Estates last year.
The charity had previously managed a smaller colony in a nearby area using a trap-neuter-return (TNR) scheme, and now it is focused on controlling the larger colony with a similar approach.
Martine Gum, one of the four trustees, shared that many businesses in the area are supporting the effort. Much of the work is being carried out by two volunteers, Julie Berry and Tracy Eastham.
Martine, from Northwich, explained, “The cats were visible, but they were very wild, so it was challenging to approach them.”
She continued, “We reached out to local businesses, and several have been incredibly supportive, allowing us to access their properties and set traps.”
Julie and Tracy then take the trapped cats to Northwich Vets in Lostock Gralam. While not far, it’s a bit of a trek considering the frequency of trips.
“We’ve successfully trapped about 45 cats so far, but we estimate that we still need to catch around 100 more,” Martine added.
Willowsway Cat Rescue can accommodate a small number of stray cats but typically returns most to their natural environment after they have been neutered. Without a dedicated rescue center, the charity relies on foster homes to care for the cats in need—currently housing about two dozen felines waiting for permanent homes.
Martine, who is also a headteacher, emphasized, “We’re always looking for foster homes—whether for short-term care or a more permanent solution. There are also many ways to support us, like helping out at our bingo nights, coffee mornings, or donating items for our raffles.”
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