A CAT who went missing for more than four weeks has been crowned ‘Freddie of Farsley’ following a community-wide search to reunite the pet with his family.

Jo Hartley, who rescued Freddie in Dubai six years ago, feared the worst after the cat managed to leave their new house on January 3.

Neighbours searched for Freddie on their daily walks, hundreds shared the social media appeal and Jo stuck missing posters around the town. Despite their efforts, he was nowhere to be seen.

As well as being unable to climb or jump, house cat Freddie had medical issues which meant his chance of survival was significantly low.

“I know it sounds like he’s just a cat, I’ve had him since he was a kitten and he’s just been with me through everything in life,” Jo said.

“He’s just very lovable. He’s got lovely folded down ears. He looks a bit like the cat of Puss in Boots but grey.

“I haven’t slept for weeks, I’ve just been out of my mind with worry.

“Even one of my friends said it’s awful but you’re just going to have to get over it and it’s been nearly four weeks. I was in pieces again.”

In a stroke of luck and a chance sighting, owner Jo got a call from her friend to say someone had posted his whereabouts on Facebook.

Freddie had taken shelter in a coal shed, living solely off water from rain and snow.

During a visit to the vets, Jo was told that it was a miracle Freddie had survived the cold Winter weather.

Jo said: “When I got the call, my friends saying, ‘Have you seen Facebook?’. When I got this call I just ran as fast as I could.

“I was convinced he would have never survived the cold weather. I thought, I hope and pray somebody’s taken him in.

“The vet said he’s been so lucky to just survive on water. There really is a God.

“I can’t actually believe it.

“He’s not left my son alone since he’s got back. He’s a bit disoriented at the moment as he’s been out in such cold weather. I don’t know how he survived.

“Just big massive, overwhelming relief. It’s just a sense of relief.

“I’m just very grateful for the people in Farsley who have been following it. I’m very grateful.

“Farsley really is a fabulous place with amazing caring people.”