A distraught Malmesbury couple are appealing for the safe return of their one-toothed cat Bobbins.

The ten-year-old feline suffers from a hyperthyroid problem which means he requires daily medication.

His owners Mark and Jane Ireson from Katiser Lane, Malmesbury, fear he will die if he does not have the medicine.

They found him eight years ago when he was wandering the streets of Swindon, almost skin and bones.

Having nursed him back to health he has become a huge part of their lives.

Bobbins usually spent his time in their gated courtyard. But the couple noticed him jumping over the fence around last Wednesday.

Mr Ireson, 31, said: "These past two days we have not stopped crying. The worst thing for me is not knowing what has happened to him. At least if I could bury him, it would be all right.

"Bobbins is a human being to us. He is very intelligent and extremely loving. He follows you around everywhere and gives you twice as much affection as we give him. Not having him around is like losing a huge chunk of our lives."

Bobbins is described as quite fat and mainly black in colour. As well as his distinguishing one tooth, he has a white face and little black chin.

The couple are offering a reward to anyone who leads them to him. If you have seen him, please contact Mark Ireson on (01666) 826314 or 07799163449.