Pets killed in huge fire at Cannock cattery

Thirty-five firefighters went to Pinetrees Cattery, Huntington, Cannock, after fire took hold.

It is believed it was caused by an electrical fault in one of the pens for the cats.

About 20 pet cats were in the main cattery building, which was well alight as firefighters arrived at the scene at about 5.40am.

The family running the cattery confirmed at least four cats of their own cats died and urged concerned owners to call the Stafford Road centre.

Two cats were taken to vets, and this afternoon it was confirmed that 15 had died.

Andy Durnall, son of owner Lynn Durnall, who lives at the property, said: "We have lost four of our own cats in the blaze.

"We are all very upset and are just coming to terms with what has happened."

Patrick Johnson, father of Lynn, said he built the cattery 15 years ago.

"People have been calling us, crying on the phone wanting to find out if their cats are OK," he said.

The cattery, open all year round, fhas heated chalets and cares for pets while their owners are away. Users praise it on its website, describing the facilities as "spotless" and the staff as "extremely loving and caring".

Cattery owners raised the alarm. Six fire engines from Cannock, Penkridge, Brewood, Stafford, Rising Brook and a water carrier from Cheadle used three main jets. Fire service station manager Dermot Hogan said the building had been destroyed.

"A fire investigation was carried out to establish how the fire started and we believe an electrical fault within one of the pens is to blame."