A HANDSOME moggie is in the care of an animal charity after he was abandoned at a motorway service station hotel.

Staff at Strensham Services on the northbound carriageway of the M5 were shocked when they discovered the male tabby and white long-haired cat had been left behind like an unwanted piece of luggage.

Two women and a girl booked in for a night at the end of April saying they were moving from Cornwall to Scotland. They asked staff at the hotel if their cat could stay in their room.

However, the group left the next day without the cat. Attempts have been made to contact the group, but it appears that they gave false details.

RSPCA Inspector Mark Lewis collected the frightened feline and took him to a vet to be checked over.

The charity’s Worcester and Mid-Worcestershire branch is now caring for the handsome moggie who they have named Lucien.

“It is a really strange set of circumstances that has led this cat to be in our care,” said Insp Lewis.

“The hotel tried to get in touch with the women via the contact details they left, but it would appear that they were false.

“Lucien is quite a distinctive cat due to his lovely markings. I am hoping that anyone who recognises him, or the description of his owners, will contact me.

“Abandoning any animal is wrong pure and simple and we would urge people to please seek help if they are struggling to cope with a pet.”

The RSPCA Worcester and Mid-Worcestershire branch is currently looking for new homes for 26 cats, 12 dogs and 29 rabbits.

Anyone interested in rehoming Lucien, or any of the branch’s other animals, should call 01905 841354.

Calls can be made to the RSPCA national cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234999.