RATS will prove they make the perfect pets at a special show tomorrow (Saturday).

The Midlands Rat Club will host its summer show at Norton Parish Hall in Littleworth, near Worcester, from 10am.

Although many people still squirm at the thought of keeping the critters as pets, the club's publicity officer, Lesley Mackness, says they are every bit the perfect pet.

"The club has been running since 2001 and we host several shows a year. The shows are a chance for people to show off their fancy rats and have them judged by a panel, and also to enter them in to agility competitions. There are various categories for breeders and also for people who just keep rats as pets," she said.

"Members of the public are welcome, and we have lots to see and do. There are stalls selling a variety of rat-related products, from hammocks and other cage and play items, as well as artwork and models.

"People can enjoy full meals prepared in the kitchen and just have a look at all the rats and speak to their owners."

Ms Mackness said everyone is welcome to the show, especially those who aren't sure about keeping rats as pets.

"For anyone who doubts rats can be good pets, we would certainly welcome them along so they can see that the opposite is true. Rats are very loving and social pets, with the intelligence of a small dog. When people think of rats they think of wild rats, and of them being dirty, when really fancy rats are fastidiously clean.

"We often get people who are trying to decide whether a pet rat is for them. There will be many people on hand to give expert advice on what to feed your rat, what cage size is appropriate and where to get your pet from.

"Mainly it's a fun day for everyone and a chance for people to show off their beloved pets. We usually get a very good turn out with people travelling from all over the country to join us, so we hope for the same this summer."

To find out more visit www.midlandsratclub.org.