WHILE Oscar the cat's owner is breathing a sigh of relief after his return from the missing list, another family are heartbroken at their dog's disappearance.

Oscar sparked a nationwide search when he ran away from his new home in Wootton Bassett.

For his owner, Sara Green, a 26 year-old account manager, had just moved to the area from Torquay, and became worried he was trying to return there when he did not come in from his night time prowl.

But fortunately the rescue cat returned after a two-day absence, absolutely filthy and covered in mud, and Wootton Bassett mayor Peter Roberts decided to make the cat feel more at home with an official mayoral welcome

Such welcomes are normally reserved for visiting dignitaries such as the Mayor of Prague, who visited Wootton Bassett last year, or Princess Anne who came to the town to open the new school in September.

But Mr Roberts said: "In a week of bad news for the town over the vandalism of the playground in New Road, it is nice to have something more light hearted and happy."

Oscar had a microchip implanted by a vet on Saturday, and has been given a certificate confirming he is a resident of Wootton Bassett.

Meanwhile the Knight family is appealing for information about their lost dog and say their cat misses him.

Karen Knight, 24, last saw Max, her four-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross, on Monday, February 24.

She lives in Lennox Drive, Walcot, with children Lee, seven, Samantha, six, and baby Michelle, six months.

Ms Knight said: "We have had Max since he was born. He loves the children. They really miss him, and so does the cat, Skips. "

Max was last seen as he headed for his usual haunts in the Buckhurst Way area. If you spot him you can call Ms Knight on 07909 677575.