TWO cats abandoned on a doorstep near Darlington just before Christmas are in need of a new home.

Barnie and Freddie, who are believed to be aged about four, were left outside a home, alongside two kittens, and a note which read: "We are brothers. Our mummy can't look after us any more. Please will you take care of us."

The kittens have since been rehomed but the cats are still in the care of the National Animal Sanctuary Support League.

Pauline Wilson, of the league, said: "Someone in Sadberge passed them to us after they found a box on their doorstep. The cats were in excellent condition - they had been very well looked after. I don't know what the circumstances were, but the person who left them must have been really upset."

Anyone who can give them a home is asked to call the league on (01325) 321855 or 07748-268822.