BRAVE cat Elvis managed to drag himself into the backyard of an animal lover's home after his leg was caught in a metal trap.

He was found in an extremely distressed state with the trap - which would have weighed the same as his body - still attached to his foot, at the house in Shotton Colliery, east Durham. Now the young pet is being nursed back to health at Wilson's Veterinary Surgery, Bishop Auckland.

Vet Sasha Farr said that the black and white cat which staff have named Elvis, was hissing and spitting when the house owners tried to catch him.

She said: "He had this enormous trap attached to his foot and he was very frightened. His mouth has been cut where he has tried to nibble the trap off and he has been very lucky not to lose a leg.''

Ms Farr believes that someone in the area could be looking for Elvis because he is quite a loving cat.

She said: "He is a beautiful cat and very nice natured. He is quite obviously someone's pet and, because we are not near to Shotton Colliery, his owners will not have thought to call us.''

It is hoped he will be reunited with his owner but, if not, he is ready to be taken to a safe and happy home.

Anyone who recognises Elvis is asked to contact Wilson's Veterinary Surgery on (01388) 602707.